Water and sediment dynamics at Saint Lawrence River mouth

Abstract

The main features of the hydrological regime and morphological structure of the estuarine-type mouth area of the Saint Lawrence River are considered. Data on the structure of water masses, thermal and ice regimes in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, which has a significant effect on the estuary, are given. The major attention is paid to water mixing processes, water and sediment dynamics in the estuary under the joint effect of river runoff and tides, and as a function of bed topography. The parameter determining the type of water stratification and circulation is discussed. The effect of the Coriolis force on the stratified flow in the estuary and formation of the geostrophic current is discussed.