3.3 Tidal Range and Basin Characteristics

Tidal range and basin characteristics play a crucial role in tidal energy potential. The difference between high and low tide, along with factors like tidal amplitude and mean sea level, determine how much energy can be harnessed from tidal movements.

Basin features like resonance and funneling can amplify tidal effects, making certain locations more suitable for energy projects. Shallow water impacts and tidal bores also influence how tidal energy systems need to be designed to work effectively and safely in specific environments.

Tidal Range

Tidal Amplitude and Mean Sea Level

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• Tidal range refers to the difference in water level between high tide and low tide
• Tidal amplitude measures the maximum displacement of the water level from the mean sea level during a tidal cycle
  • Half the tidal range
  • Varies depending on the location and the phase of the moon (spring tides vs. neap tides)
• Mean sea level is the average height of the ocean's surface between high and low tides
  • Serves as a reference point for measuring tidal amplitudes and ranges
  • Can change over time due to factors such as sea-level rise caused by climate change

Tidal Prism

• Tidal prism represents the volume of water that flows in and out of an estuary or bay during a tidal cycle
  • Calculated by multiplying the tidal range by the surface area of the basin
• Influences the exchange of water, nutrients, and sediments between the estuary and the open ocean
  • Larger tidal prisms lead to greater water exchange and mixing
• Important factor in determining the potential for tidal energy generation
  • Basins with large tidal prisms and high tidal ranges are more suitable for tidal power projects (Bay of Fundy, Canada)

Basin Characteristics

Basin Resonance and Funneling Effect

• Basin resonance occurs when the natural oscillation period of a basin matches the period of the tidal forcing
  • Leads to amplification of the tidal range within the basin
  • Depends on factors such as basin geometry, depth, and size
• Funneling effect describes the increase in tidal range as the width of a basin or estuary narrows
  • Occurs when the incoming tidal wave is constricted by the narrowing topography
  • Results in higher tidal ranges and increased tidal currents (Cook Inlet, Alaska)

Shallow Water Effects and Tidal Bores

• Shallow water effects become significant when the water depth is relatively small compared to the wavelength of the tidal wave
  • Causes non-linear distortions in the tidal wave profile
  • Leads to asymmetry between the duration of the flood and ebb tides
• Tidal bores are steep, wave-like features that can form in shallow, funnel-shaped estuaries during the incoming tide
  • Occur when the leading edge of the tidal wave becomes steeper and eventually breaks
  • Associated with rapid water level rise and strong currents (Qiantang River, China)
• Understanding shallow water effects and tidal bores is crucial for designing tidal energy projects and assessing their environmental impact
  • Tidal turbines must be designed to withstand the high velocities and turbulence associated with these phenomena