A numerical model for tidal currents in the Changjiang River estuary

A generalized finite difference scheme is presented for the solution of two-dimensioned tidal current equations (averaged over the depth of water). This method has been used to simulate the tidal currents in the Changjiang River estuary, with computed results being in good agreement with the field observations. The two-dimensional domain consists of triangular elements with acute angles. First- and second-order partial derivatives are defined at nodal points. In addition, the basic tidal current equations contain an extra term to account for horizontal eddy viscosity. The method has the great advantage of allowing a wide flexibility in configuration simulation, thereby exhibiting the capability to arbitrarily subdivide the region of interest as well as to provide a more accurate boundary shape, and what is more, it offers savings in computing costs. This paper was published in Chinese in the Ocean. et Limn. Sinica.16(1):18–27, 1985