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Water exchange as the main physical process in semi-enclosed marine systems: the Gulf of Riga case

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Abstract

The role of the water exchange processes on semi-enclosed marine systems is discussed on the example of the Gulf of Riga. Two different aspects are illustrated: potential and kinetic (dynamic). The first one appears as a level or certain equilibrium in the water and nutrient balance of the water-body. Currents ventilate the Gulf especially in relation to excessive nitrogen amounts. The second aspect explains how the situation in some coastal areas is affected by the water exchange processes (currents) of nearby basins, driving hydrochemical and biological fronts there and back. It appeared that, for example, in the Väinameri basin such movements are more important than the local pollution or sometimes even seasonality.

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Astok, V., Otsmann, M. & Suursaar, Ü. Water exchange as the main physical process in semi-enclosed marine systems: the Gulf of Riga case. Hydrobiologia 393, 11–18 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1003517110726

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1003517110726

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