Subtidal Response of Scotian Shelf Circulation to Local and Remote Forcing. Part 11: Barotropic Model (original) (raw)

A linear, barotropic numerical model that features realistic bathymetry of the Scotian Shelf provides solutions forced by steady and periodic wind stress that are generally incoherent on spatial scales of the shelf width. Closed circulation cells occur in d a t i o n with, and on the scales of, major bathymetric features. Bathymetrically steered now is prevalenf and more evident at lower frequencies. Model transport forced by a coastally trapped wave propagating across the backward boundary is not sensitive to the modal structure of the incident wave; bathymetry rapidly modifies the wave form as it propagates in the free diredon. Higher modes and reflected waves are probably dissipated over short distances by scattering and strong bottom stress. Patterns seen in the model solutions are consistent with resulu from more fundamental models, and are readily explained by relatively simple vorticity balances.