Internal tidal currents in the Gaoping (Kaoping) Submarine Canyon

Abstract

Data from five separate field experiments during 2000–2006 were used to study the internal tidal flow patterns in the Gaoping (formerly spelled Kaoping) Submarine Canyon. The internal tides are large with maximum interface displacements of about 200 m and maximum velocities of over 100cm/s. They are characterized by a first-mode velocity and density structure with zero crossing at about 100 m depth. In the lower layer, the currents increase with increasing depth. The density interface and the along-channel velocity are approximately 90° out-of-phase, suggesting a predominant standing wave pattern. However, partial reflection is indicated as there is a consistent phase advance between sea level and density interface along the canyon axis.