Investigation using simple mathematical models of the effect of tidal currents and waves on the profile shape of intertidal mudflats

Schematic mathematical models have been used to investigate the relationship between hydrodynamic forcing, sediment transport and the equilibrium profile shape of intertidal mudflats. The approach involves representation in the model of the main physical processes. The model is then applied to iterative calculations of sediment transport and morphological change which proceed until a stable situation is achieved. Relationships are established between the shape of the equilibrium profile and external factors such as tidal range, sediment supply and wave conditions. Large tidal ranges are shown to correspond to steeper mudflats, a high sediment supply leads to a less steep mudflat and the action of waves is shown to lead to a mudflat profile which is concave upwards.