the water passing through a perforated screen before flowing across the
table, making the flow somewhat turbulent initially.
g. The value of small-scale, 3-D physical models was amply demonstrated
by Alaska District engineers who used the model to understand more
fully some of the reasons for sedimentation at the Port of Anchorage, and
to develop cost-saving dredging procedures at the port. Being able to
visualize the flow with dyes and tracers provided insight and instant
feedback to enhance their understanding about the primary flow
processes.
h. Although 3-D flow structures were evident throughout the flow regime,
the turbulent vertical velocities did not seem as important as the
horizontal motion of the gyres. Therefore, 2-D, depth-averaged
numerical models might provide reasonable approximation of the overall
flow in Cook Inlet. However, details of motion within the gyres or flow
entrainment areas are best investigated using a physical modeling
approach, preferrably with minimum geometric distortion.
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Chapter 7 Three-Dimensional Cook Inlet Model
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