Hydromechanics for the formation and development of radial sandbanks (I) -Plane characteristics of tidal flow

Based upon the long-term observation of field data, a two-dimensional numer ical model is applied to simulating the tidal flow covering from the neap t ide to spring tide in the radial sandbank area in the southern Yellow Sea. From the development of tidal current ridges under the hydrodynamic action, multi-purpose analysis and study are carried out, which include the propag ation process of tidal wave, the distributions of tidal wave energy rate an d tidal range, the tidal ellipses and traces. It is shown that the tidal cu rrent is the major dynamic factor for the formation and development of the radial sandbanks, and the differences of tidal wave energy rate and current strength determine the distinct plane shapes of ridges and troughs in this region.