Tidal Current Model Comparison
Comparing solutions from 400m resolution and 100m resolution models at The Solent.
Assuming the hydrodynamic model is the reference condition:
The open water flows are entirely consistent between the two resolution models.
Some areas of flow acceleration directly adjacent to land are not replicated by the 400m resoultion model.
While The Solent is a region best suited for a 100m resolution solution, the 400m resolution model can effectively replicate the main spatial flow patterns, the timing of tidal current changes and the strength of the currents in most areas.
The results show the 400m resolution model is ideal for regional downscaling, allowing the 100m resolution model to be used efficiently on the complex nearshore areas.
In shallow of complex areas, point comparisons between models need to consider the bathymetry resolved by the respective grid domains.