A three-dimensional model of water circulation and temperature structure in the Caspian Sea

Abstract

This research is based on a numerical model for forecasting the threedimensional behaviour of (sea) water motion due to the effect of the variable wind velocity. The results obtained are then analyzed and compared with observations. This model is based on the equations that overcome the current and distribution of temperature by applying the method of finite difference by assuming ∆x, ∆y as constant and ∆z as variable.The model has been evaluated according to the reports and observations. Through studying the position of the current in different layers, the velocity in the cross section in the northern, southern and the middle layers will be discussed. The results reveal the presence of the circulation cells in the three above-mentioned areas. The circulation is reduced with increase in depth. The current velocity throughout the whole fields is different. The first layer current velocity is calculated to be between 1.6 cm/s and 15 cm/s. It seems that the maximum velocity in the middle is considered by the maximum wind velocity 7m/s and wind stress (τ x = τ y = 0.07N/m 2 ). The results obtained through the numerical solution of the temperature equation have been compared with the observations. The temperature change in different layers in the cross section illustrates the relative harmony of the model mentioned.

Conjunction of 2D and 3D modified flow solvers for simulating spatio-temporal wind induced hydrodynamics in the Caspian Sea

“…By means of a finite difference method using a coarse grid, Nasimi and Ghiasi (2006) hydrostatically modelled the water circulation and temperature structure in the Caspian Sea. Korotenko et al (2002) used a 3D flow/transport model (POM) to predict the dispersal of oil pollution in coastal waters of the Caspian Sea.…”