Tidal Movement Characteristics Outside the Pearl River Estuary and Its Influence on the Mouths

The hydrology of the Pearl River Estuary is controlled both by river discharge and tide, where water and sediment move through eight outlets (mouths) into the sea. Using numerical modeling, this paper examines the characteristics of tidal movement in Pearl River Estuary. Results showed an amphidromic point near Modaomen mouth, and river runoff flows down. From marine dynamics point of view, Modaomen mouth is the main channel for water and sediment transportation of Pearl River. Using the tidal energy, we discuss the change of the sediment near the several entrances during the flood and dry seasons.© 2009 ASME