The Impact of Cold Fronts on the Age of Suspended Sediment in Galveston Bay
Abstract
Cold fronts are considered to be a significant cause of sediment resuspension and transport in estuarine systems. Cumulatively, cold fronts have a greater total impact on sediment resuspension and transport than less frequent, higher intensity tropical storms and hurricanes. This study was conducted to determine how sediment resuspension in Galveston Bay is impacted by the passage of cold fronts. Suspended sediment samples were collected at multiple points around Galveston Bay following cold front passages, and precipitation samples were also collected. By analyzing the ratio of the radionuclides 7Be and 210Pb in the suspended sediment samples from each site, as well as in the precipitation samples, it was possible to calculate the age of the resuspended sediment. It was possible to compare the differences in age to evaluate short-term sediment transport and deposition processes associated with cold front passages between the sample sites. The average suspended sediment ages during the entire study period for Upper and Lower Galveston Bay were 131.3 days and 204.7 days, respectively. Total Suspended Sediment and Radionuclide Activity were also assessed for each sample site.
Citation
Cox, Noah Brent (2021). The Impact of Cold Fronts on the Age of Suspended Sediment in Galveston Bay. Undergraduate Research Scholars Program. Available electronically from https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /200627.