The wind- and wave-driven inner-shelf circulation

Area of Science:

• Oceanography
• Coastal dynamics
• Fluid mechanics

Background:

• The inner continental shelf is a dynamic region between the surf zone and the middle shelf.
• Circulation here is influenced by factors often overlooked in deeper waters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review circulation and momentum balances on the inner continental shelf.
• To highlight the dominant roles of cross-shelf wind and surface gravity waves.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of prior and recent studies.
• Analysis of circulation drivers and momentum balances.

Main Results:

• Cross-shelf wind stress and surface gravity waves are dominant drivers of inner shelf circulation.
• Tides and buoyant plumes also contribute significantly to inner shelf dynamics.

Conclusions:

• Inner shelf circulation connects coastal and open ocean environments.
• Understanding these dynamics is crucial for predicting transport of pollutants, larvae, and nutrients.