An Investigation of Environmental Factors Affecting the Near-Bottom Currents in the Monterey Submarine Canyon

摘要

Continuous bottom current measurements were taken in the head of Monterey Submarine Canyon in water depths ranging from 80 to 110 fathoms utilizing an in situ Savonius Rotor current measuring system placed approximately 40 feet above the bottom. Concurrent wind, wave, and tidal data were collected with the current measurements. Basic statistical parameters and power spectra were then computed for each time series obtained. Current speeds in excess of one knot were measured, with the current direction being predominantly along the canyon axis. Water temperature, current speed and direction all exhibit cyclic fluctuations of a periodicity equal to that of the semidiurnal tide. Cold, high-speed currents flow up-canyon (landward) on the falling tide while warmer, slower currents flow down-canyon (seaward) on the rising tide. Wind and wave conditions do not appear to have any significant effects on the near-bottom currents. (Author)