Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Kinematic History of a Salient-recess Junction Explored through a Combined Approach of Field Data and Analog Sandbox Modeling
Published on: August 5, 2016
The shaping of continental slopes by internal tides
D A Cacchione1, L F Pratson, A S Ogston
1Coastal and Marine Geology MS-999, U.S. Geological Survey, 345 Middlefield Road, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA.
Abstract:
The angles of energy propagation of semidiurnal internal tides may determine the average gradient of continental slopes in ocean basins (approximately 2 to 4 degrees). Intensification of near-bottom water velocities and bottom shear stresses caused by reflection of semi-diurnal internal tides affects sedimentation patterns and bottom gradients, as indicated by recent studies of continental slopes off northern California and New Jersey. Estimates of bottom shear velocities caused by semi-diurnal internal tides are high enough to inhibit deposition of fine-grained sediment onto the slopes.
Related Concept Videos
Mechanism of Lamellipodia Formation
Mechanisms of Membrane Domain Formation
Another mechanism for membrane domain formation involves membrane proteins interacting with cytoskeletal...
Tidal Forces
Micelles
Design Example: Maintaining Level of an Embankment
Latitudes and Departures

