A numerical model to simulate the formation and subsequent evolution of tidal channel networks

Abstract

We present a numerical model that simulates morphological change as a result of the interactions between hydrodynamics, sediment transport and bed elevation change. Numerical simulations indicate that these morphodynamic interactions can lead to the initiation of tidal channels and potentially give rise to large-scale channel networks. We perform a sensitivity analysis to show how model outcome is sensitive to the numerical scheme adopted, hydrodynamic and morphological time-steps, and initial bathymetry. Furthermore, the formation of tidal channels and intertidal areas affects both the large-scale flow patterns, as well as the asymmetry between flood- and ebb-tidal currents.