NUMERICAL MODELING OF 3-D CIRCULATION IN RESTRICTED WATERS

The paper presents a three-dimensional circulation model based on a fi nite element formulation. Due to the geophysical applications, the hyd rostatic pressure assumption is assumed, resulting in important formul ation simplifications. The turbulence is calculated by use of a one-eq uation model together with an algebraic length scale. The ability of t he model is demonstrated by applications to a wind-driven flow in a si mple basin and the tidal circulation in a Norwegian fjord. Predictions for the latter example are compared with available measurements. The present version of the model is with constant density. It is realized that stratification effects must generally be included; however, the p resent predictions with constant density show that some of the main fe atures of the fjord circulation can still be predicted fairly realisti cally.