Two-Dimensional Circulation in Straits

A two-dimensional model for a stratified strait of constant width and variable depth is developed. The model describes the density distribution and the longitudinal gravitational circulation maintained by imposed density differences between adjacent seas, by surface slope and by tangential wind stress. The effects of vertical mixing and longitudinal advection for mass and momentum are included in the model. A similarity solution requiring power law dependence for the bottom slope and for longitudinal variations of all functions is obtained. The theoretical calculations are in reasonable agreement with observations in the Bosphorus and other straits. The model shows that, due to the vertical entrainment processes, the water masses become thinner while approaching the downstream ends.