Abstract
The development of computer models for mass transport inestuaries has been an important engineering activity for the past decade. However, only a limited amount of work has been done in modeling the two-dimensional characteristics of parcially stratified estuaries. The goals of this study were (1) to develop computer models which could calculate time-varying vertical and horizontal mass transport in partially stratified estuaries; (2) to compare the accuracy and usefulness of explicit finite difference models and Crank-Nicolson implicit finite difference models; (3) to demonstrate the applicability of finite difference models to the mass transport characteristics of the Houston Ship Channel; and (4) to summarize existing information on one-and two dimentional mathematical models that have been applied to significant estuary problems. Explicit and Crank-Nicolson finite difference models were developed for the one- and two-dimensional estuary equations with varying coefficients. The models were constructed to allow for the varying of parameters at any time at any grid point and were programmed in FORTRAN-IV computer language. Good accuracy was obtained by both types of models when proper time and distance increments were used. The Crank-Nicolson approach was found to be more accurate for a wider range of these increments. The concentration profiles for instantaneous releases and for steadys tate conditions were analyzed. Accuracy was determined by comparison with analytical closed-form solutions. ...
Young, Paul Jonathan (1972). Finite difference models for mass transport in partially stratified estuaries. Texas A&M University. Texas A&M University. Libraries. Available electronically from
https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /DISSERTATIONS -187283.