Net sediment transport patterns over the Bohai Strait based on grain size trend analysis

Abstract

Grain size trend analysis indicates two distinct characteristics of sediment transport in Bohai Strait. Eastward transport dominates the western area and along the coast of the Shangdong Peninsula. This result supports the previous work which indicated that the Yellow River sediments are transported from the Bohai Sea to the Yellow Sea through the south channel of Bohai Strait, and dispersed into the southern Yellow Sea along the coast of Shangdong Peninsula. In the central eastern Bohai Strait, net deposition is taking place, as indicated by the convergence of the grain size trends. This result is consistent with current circulation pattern on Bohai Strait and the interpretation of strata disclosed by seismic reflection profile. This study supports the use of grain size trend analysis for large-scale areas on the continental shelf.