A two-dimensional slice model of the shelf edge region off the west coast of Scotland: model response to realistic seasonal forcing and the role of the M2 tide

A high resolution, two-dimensional cross-shelf slice model, with a range of turbulence energy sub-models, is applied to the shelf and shelf-edge region off the west coast of Scotland. The model, based upon previous work in the region (Xing and Davies, 1996, Journal of Physical Oceanography, 26, 417–447), emphasises the need for high resolution in both vertical and horizontal directions to study processes over the shelf edge. Using realistic seasonal meterological forcing, a year long integration is performed to investigate the role of mixing upon the formation of seasonal stratification. Results show that, whilst the meteorological forcing is essential to the formation of seasonal stratification and the sub-tidal cross-shelf circulation, the tide (barotropic and associated internal tide) is an important process that enhances mixing and the sub-tidal energetic cross-shelf circulation over the shelf edge.