Tide and Current Glossary NOAA PDF

Tide and Current Glossary
Silver Spring, MD
January 2000
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
National Ocean Service
Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Norman Mineta, Secretary
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

D. James Baker, Administrator
National Ocean Service

Margaret Davidson, Assistant Administrator
Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services

David M. Kennedy, Acting Director
Preface to 1999 Edition
The publication is a revision of the 1989 edition. This edition has been a group effort by
Steacy D. Hicks, Richard L. Sillcox, C. Reid Nichols, Brenda Via, and Evette C. McCray. It was
subsequently revised by Chris Zervas. Final formatting, layout, and printing has been under the
authority of Brenda Via.
The author wishes to thank the following for their contributions: C. Reid Nichols (numerous
entries), Richard L. Sillcox, Jack E. Fancher, Dr. Robert G. Williams, Thomas J. Kendrick, Douglas
M. Martin, David B. Zilkoski, Richard Edwing, Michael Szabados, Steven Lyles, James Hubbard,
Michael Gibson, Steven Gill, William Stoney, Dr. Ledolph Baer, and Dr. Bruce B. Parker. Special
thanks is given to Dr. Kurt Hess for his numerous technical corrections and suggestions.
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Printing History of Tide and Current Glossary
Special Publication No. 228, Coast and Geodetic Survey, by Paul Schureman, 1941.
Special Publication No. 228, Coast and Geodetic Survey, by Paul Schureman revised by
E. C. McKay and F. J. Haight, 1949.
Special Publication No. 228, Coast and Geodetic Survey, by Paul Schureman, reprinted with
corrections, 1963.
National Ocean Survey, by Paul Schureman, revised by Steacy D. Hicks, 1975.
National Ocean Service, by Steacy D. Hicks, 1984.
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For further information on tides, sea level, tidal datums, record certifications,
and related publications, contact:
NOAA, National Ocean Service
CO-OPS, Products and Services N/OPS3
Attn: User Services
1305 East-West Highway
Silver Spring, MD 20190-3281
Phone: (301)713-2877 Ext. 176

Fax: (301)713-4437
For further information on Great Lakes water levels, datums, and

related publications, contact:
CO-OPS, Requirements and Development N/OPS1
Attn: Great Lakes
Phone: (301)713-2902 Ext. 184

Fax: (301)713-4435
For further information on currents, tide and tidal current predictions,

and related publications, contact:
CO-OPS, Products and Services N/OPS3
Attn: Tidal Predictions
Phone: (301)713-2815 Ext. 119

Fax: (301)713-4500
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A air acoustic ranging sensor A pulsed, acoustic

absolute mean sea level change An eustatic change ranging device using the air column in a tube as the acoustic
in mean sea level relative to a conventional terrestrial sound path. The fundamental measurement is the time it
coordinate system with the origin at the center of mass of takes for the acoustic signal to travel from a transmitter to
the Earth. the water surface and then back to the receiver. The distance
accepted values Tidal datums and Greenwich high from a reference point to the water surface is derived from
and low water intervals obtained through primary de- the travel time. A calibration point is set at a fixed distance
termination or comparison of simultaneous observations from the acoustic transducer and is used to correct the mea-
with a control tide station in order to derive the equivalent sured distance using the calibrated sound velocity in the
value that would be obtained with a 19-year series. tube. Air temperature sensors are located in the protective
acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) A cur- well for the purpose of verifying uniformity of temperature
rent measuring instrument employing the transmission of for measurements taken by the air acoustic ranging sensor.
high frequency acoustic signals in the water. The current is Alaska Current A North Pacific Ocean current
determined by a Doppler shift in the backscatter echo from setting counterclockwise along the coasts of Canada and
plankton, suspended sediment, and bubbles, all assumed to Alaska in the Gulf of Alaska.
be moving with the mean speed of the water. Time gating Alaskan Stream A North Pacific O cean current
circuitry is employed which uses differences in acoustic setting westward along the south side of the Aleutian
travel time to divide the water column into range intervals, Islands. It is an extension of the Alaska Current.
called bins. The bin determinations allow development of a amphidromic point A point of zero amplitude of the
profile of current speed and direction over most of the water observed or a constituent tide.
column. The ADCP can be deployed from a moving vessel, amphidromic region An area surrounding an am-
tow, buoy, or bottom platform. In the latter configuration, phidromic point from which the radiating cotidal lines
it is nonobtrusive in the water column and thus can be progress through all hours of the tidal cycle.
deployed in shipping channels. amplitude (H) One-half the range of a constituent
ADR gauge Analog to Digital Recording water level tide. By analogy, it may be applied also to the maximum
gauge. A float or pressure-actuated water level gauge that speed of a constituent current.
records heights at regular time intervals in digital format. analog A continuous measurement or a continuous
age of diurnal inequality The time interval between graphic display of data. See ADR gauge and marigram.
the maximum semimonthly north or south declination of the analysis, harmonic See harmonic analysis.
Moon and the maximum effect of declination upon range of analyzer, harmonic See harmonic analyzer.
tide or speed of the tidal current. The age may be computed angular velocity of the Earth's rotation ( S) Time
from the harmonic constants by the formula: rate of change of angular displacement relative to the fixed
age of diurnal inequality = 0.911( 51 O 1) hours. stars. It is equal to 0.729,211 x 10 -4 radian/second.
age of M oon The time elapsed since the preceding annual inequality Seasonal variation in water level
new Moon or current, more or less periodic, due chiefly to me-
age of parallax inequality The time interval between teorological causes.
perigee of the Moon and the maximum effect of parallax anomalistic Pertaining to the periodic return of the
upon range of tide or speed of the tidal current. This age Moon to its perigee or the Earth to its perihelion. The
may be computed from the harmonic constants by the anomalistic month is the average period of the revolution of
formula: the Moon around the Earth with respect to lunar perigee,
age of parallax inequality = 1.837(M 2 N 2) hours. and is approximately 27.554,550 days in length. The
age of phase inequality The time interval between anomalistic year is the average period of the revolution of
new or full M oon and the maximum effect of these phases the Earth around the Sun with respect to perihelion, and is
upon range of tide or speed of the tidal current. This age approximately 365.259,6 days in length.
may be computed from the harmonic constants by the anomaly As applied to astronomy, the anomaly is the
formula: angle made at any time by the radius vector of a planet or
age of phase inequality = 0.984(S 2 M 2) hours. moon with its line of apsides, the angle being reckoned from
age of tide Same as age of phase inequality. perihelion or perigee in the direction of the body's motion.
agger Same as double tide. It is called the true anomaly when referred to the actual
Agulhas Current An Indian Ocean current setting position of the body, and mean anomaly when referred to a
southwestward along the southeast coast of Africa. fictitious body moving with a uniform angular velocity
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equal to the average velocity of the real body and passing crosses the meridian at a time corresponding to the
perihelion or perigee at the same time. maximum of the constituent that it represents.
Antarctic Circumpolar Current The largest astronomical day See astronomical time.
permanent current in the world, setting eastward around the astronomical tide Same as tide.
Antarctic Continent south of Cape Horn, Cape of Good astronomical time Time formerly used in
Hope, Tasmania, and New Zealand. Through Drake astronomical calculations in which the day began at noon
Passage, it transports approximately 200 x 10 6 m 3/s. Same rather than midnight. The astronomical day commenced at
as W est W ind Drift. noon of the civil day of the same date. The hours of the day
anticyclonic ring A meander breaking off from the were numbered consecutively from zero (noon) to 23 (11
main oceanic current and spinning in a clockwise direction a.m. of the following morning). Up to the close of the year
in the northern hemisphere (counter-clockwise in southern). 1924, astronomical time was in general use in nautical
Antilles Current A North Atlantic Ocean current almanacs. Beginning with the year 1925, the American
setting northwestward along the northeast coasts of the Ephemeris and Nautical Almanac and similar publications
Bahama Islands. of other countries abandoned the old astronomical time and
aphelion The point in the orbit of the Earth (or other adopted Greenwich civil (mean) time for the data given in
planet, etc.) farthest from the Sun. their tables.
apogean tides or tidal currents Tides of decreased augmenting factor A factor, used in connection with
range or currents of decreased speed occurring monthly as the harmonic analysis of tides or tidal currents by stencils,
the result of the Moon being in apogee. The apogean range to allow for the fact that the tabulated hourly heights or
(An) of the tide is the average range occurring at the time of speeds used in the summation for any constituent, other than
apogean tides and is most conveniently computed from the S, do not in general occur on the exact constituent hours to
harmonic constants. It is smaller than the mean range, where which they are assigned, but may differ from the same by as
the type of tide is either semidiurnal or mixed, and is of no much as a half hour.
practical significance where the type of tide is automatic tide (water level) gauge An instrument
predominantly diurnal. that automatically registers the rise and fall of the water
apogee The point in the orbit of the Moon or a level. In some instruments, the registration is accomplished
man-made satellite farthest from the Earth. The point in the by recording the heights at regular time intervals in digital
orbit of a satellite farthest from its companion body. format; in others, by a continuous graph of height against
apparent secular trend The nonperiodic tendency time.
of sea level to rise, fall, or remain stationary with time. azimuth Azimuth of a body is the arc of the horizon
Technically, it is frequently defined as the slope of a least- intercepted between the north or south point and the foot of
squares line of regression through a relatively long series of the vertical circle passing through the body. It is reckoned
yearly mean sea-level values. The word "apparent" is used in degrees from either the north or south point clockwise
since it is often not possible to know whether a trend is truly entirely around the horizon. Azimuth of a current is the
nonperiodic or merely a segment of a very long oscillation direction toward which it is flowing, and is usually reckoned
(relative to the length of the series). from the north point.
apparent time Time based upon the true position of
the Sun as distinguished from mean time, which is measured B
by a fictitious Sun moving at a uniform rate. Apparent time baroclinic The condition and type of motion when
is that shown by the sundial, and its noon is the time when isobaric surfaces of a fluid are not parallel with isopycnal
the Sun crosses the meridian. The difference between surfaces.
apparent time and mean time is known as the equation of barotropic The condition and type of motion when
time. Although quite common many years ago, apparent isobaric surfaces of a fluid are parallel with isopycnal
time is seldom used now. surfaces.
apsides The points in the orbit of a planet or moon barycenter The common center of mass of the Sun-
which are the nearest and farthest from the center of Earth System or the Moon-Earth System. The distance from
attraction. In the Earth's orbit these are called perihelion and the center of the Sun to the Sun-Earth barycenter is about
aphelion, and in the M oon's orbit, perigee and apogee. The 280 miles. The distance from the center of the Earth to the
line passing through the apsides of an orbit is called the line Moon-Earth barycenter is about 2,895 miles.
of apsides. bench mark (BM ) A fixed physical object or mark
argument See equilibrium argument. used as reference for a horizontal or vertical datum. A tidal
astres fictifs Fictitious celestial bodies which are bench mark is one near a tide station to which the tide staff
assumed to move in the celestial equator at uniform rates and tidal datums are referred. A primary bench mark is the
corresponding to the speeds of the several harmonic principal mark of a group of tidal bench marks to which the
constituents of the tide producing force. Each astre fictif tide staff and tidal datums are referred. The standard tidal
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bench mark of the National Ocean Service is a brass, chlorine, bromine, and iodine contained in one kilogram of
bronze, or aluminum alloy disk 3- inches in diameter seawater, assuming the bromine and iodine to be replaced
containing the inscription NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE by chlorine. The number giving the chlorinity in grams per
together with other individual identifying information. A kilogram of a seawater sample is identical with the number
geodetic bench mark identifies a surveyed point in the giving the mass in grams of atomic weight silver just
National Spatial Reference System. Bench mark disks of necessary to precipitate the halogens in 0.328,523,3
either type may, on occasion, serve simultaneously to kilogram of the seawater sample.
reference both tidal and geodetic datums. Numerous bench S( ) = 1.806,55 x Cl( )
marks of predecessor organizations to NOS, or parts of where S( ) is the salinity in parts per thousand. See
other organizations absorbed into NOS, still bear the salinity.
inscriptions: U.S. COAST & GEODETIC SURVEY, civil day A mean solar day commencing at midnight.
NATIONAL GEODETIC SURVEY, NATIONAL OCEAN civil time Time in which the day begins at midnight
SU RV EY , U .S. LAK E SU R V E Y , CO RP S O F as distinguished from the former astronomical time in which
ENGINEERS, and U.S. ENGINEER OFFICE. the day began at noon.
Benguela Current A South Atlantic Ocean current classification See type of tide.
setting northward along the southwest coast of Africa. Coast and Geodetic Survey A former name of the
bore Same as tidal bore. National Ocean Service. The organization was known as:
Brazil Current A South Atlantic Ocean current Survey of the Coast from its founding in 1807 to 1836,
setting southwestward along the central coast of South Coast Survey from 1836 to 1878, Coast and Geodetic
America. Survey from 1878 to 1970, and National Ocean Survey
bubbler tide (water level) gauge Same as gas from 1970 to 1982. In 1982 it was named National Ocean
purged pressure gauge. Service. From 1965 to 1970, the Coast and Geodetic Survey
was a component of the Environmental Science Services
C Administration (ESSA). The National Ocean Survey was a
California Current A North Pacific Ocean current component of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
setting southeastward along the west coast of the United Administration (NOAA). NOAA became the successor to
States and Baja California. ESSA in 1970. The National Ocean Service is a component
Callippic cycle A period of four Metonic cycles of NOAA, U.S. Department of Commerce.
equal to 76 Julian years, or 27,759 days. D evised by coast line The low water datum line for purposes of
Callippus, a Greek astronomer, about 350 B.C., as a the Submerged Lands Act (Public Law 31). See shoreline.
suggested improvement on the Metonic cycle for a period coastal boundary The mean high water line
in which new and full M oon would recur on the same day of (MHW L) or mean higher high water line (MHHW L) when
the year. Taking the length of the synodical month as tidal lines are used as the coastal boundary. Also, lines used
29.530,588 days, there are 940 lunations in the Callippic as boundaries inland of and measured from (or points
cycle, with about 0.25 day remaining. thereon) the MHW L or M HHW L. See marine boundary.
Canary Current A North Atlantic Ocean current coastal zone (legal definition for coastal zone man-
setting southward off the west coast of Portugal and along agement) The term coastal zone means the coastal waters
the northwest coast of Africa. (including the lands therein and thereunder) and the
celestial sphere An imaginary sphere of infinite adjacent shorelands (including the waters therein and
radius concentric with the Earth on which all celestial thereunder), strongly influenced by each and in proximity to
bodies except the Earth are imagined to be projected. the shorelines of the several coastal states, and includes
centibar The unit of pressure equal to 1 metric ton islands, transitional and intertidal areas, salt marshes,
(1000 kilograms) per meter per second per second. See wetlands, and beaches. The zone extends, in Great Lakes
decibar. waters, to the international boundary between the United
chart datum The datum to which soundings on a States and Canada and in other areas seaward to the outer
chart are referred. It is usually taken to correspond to a limit of the United States territorial sea. The zone extends
low-water elevation, and its depression below mean sea inland from the shorelines only to the extent necessary to
level is represented by the symbol Z ;. Since 1980, chart control shorelands, the uses of which have a direct and
datum has been implemented to mean lower low water for significant impact on the coastal waters. Excluded from the
all marine waters of the United States, its territories, coastal zone are lands the use of which is by law subject
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and Trust Territory of the solely to the discretion of or which is held in trust by the
Pacific Islands. See datum and National Tidal Datum Federal Government, its officers, or agents.
Convention of 1980. coastline Same as shoreline. See coast line.
Charybdis Same as Galofaro. cocurrent line A line on a map or chart passing
chlorinity (Cl) The total amount in grams of through places having the same current hour.
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comparison of simultaneous observationsA reduc- constituent hour One twenty-fourth part of a con-
tion process in which a short series of tide or tidal current stituent day.
observations at any place is compared with simultaneous control current station A current station at which
observations at a control station where tidal or tidal current continuous velocity observations have been made over a
constants have previously been determined from a long minimum period of 29 days. Its purpose is to provide data
series of observations. The observations are typically high for computing accepted values of the harmonic and
and low tides and monthly means. For tides, it is usually nonharmonic constants essential to tidal current predictions
used to adjust constants from a subordinate station to the and circulatory studies. T he data series from this station
equivalent value that would be obtained from a l9-year serves as the control for the reduction of relatively short
series. See first reduction, standard method, modified-range series from subordinate current stations through the method
ratio method, and direct method. of comparison of simultaneous observations. See current
compass direction Direction as indicated by compass station and subordinate current station (1).
without any correction for compass error. The direction control station See primary control tide station,
indicated by a compass may differ by a considerable amount secondary control tide station, and control current station.
from true or magnetic direction. corange line A line passing through places of equal
compass error The angular difference between a tidal range.
compass direction and the corresponding true direction. The Coriolis force A fictional force in the hydrodynamic
compass error combines the effects of deviation and equations of motion that takes into account the effect of the
variation. Earth's rotation on moving objects (including air and water)
component (1) Same as constituent. (2) That part of when viewed with reference to a coordinate system attached
a tidal current velocity which, by resolution into orthogonal to the rotating Earth. The horizontal component is directed
vectors, is found to flow in a specified direction. 90 to the right (when looking in the direction of motion) in
compound tide A harmonic tidal (or tidal current) the Northern Hemisphere and 90 to the left in the Southern.
constituent with a speed equal to the sum or difference of The horizontal component is zero at the Equator; also, when
the speeds of two or more elementary constituents. The the object is at rest relative to the Earth. The Coriolis
presence of compound tides is usually attributed to shallow acceleration = 2v S sin : where v is the speed of the object,
water conditions. S is the angular velocity of the Earth, and is the latitude.
constants, current See current constants. Named for Gaspard Gustave de Coriolis who published his
constants, harmonic See harmonic constants. formulation in 1835.
constants, tidal See tidal constants. corrected current A relatively short series of current
constituent One of the harmonic elements in a observations from a subordinate station to which a factor is
mathematical expression for the tide-producing force and in applied to adjust the current to a more representative value
corresponding formulas for the tide or tidal current. Each based on a relatively long series from a nearby control
constituent represents a periodic change or variation in the station. See current and total current.
relative positions of the Earth, Moon, and Sun. A single cotidal hour The average interval between the
constituent is usually written in the form y = A cos (at + "), Moon's transit over the meridian of Greenwich and the time
in which y is a function of time as expressed by the symbol of the following high water at any place. This interval may
t and is reckoned from a specific origin. The coefficient A be expressed either in solar or lunar time. W hen expressed
is called the amplitude of the constituent and is a measure in solar time, it is the same as the Greenwich high water
of its relative importance. The angle (at + ") changes interval. W hen expressed in lunar time, it is equal to the
uniformly and its value at any time is called the phase of the Greenwich high water interval multiplied by the factor
constituent. The speed of the constituent is the rate of 0.966.
change in its phase and is represented by the symbol a in the cotidal line A line on a chart or map passing through
formula. The quantity " is the phase of the constituent at the places having the same tidal hour.
initial instant from which the time is reckoned. The period countercurrent A current usually setting in a direc-
of the constituent is the time required for the phase to tion opposite to that of a main current. See Equatorial
change through 360 and is the cycle of the astronomical Countercurrent.
condition represented by the constituent. crest The highest point in a propagating wave. See
constituent day The time of the rotation of the Earth high water and tidal wave.
with respect to a fictitious celestial body representing one of current Generally, a horizontal movement of water.
the periodic elements in the tidal forces. It approximates in Currents may be classified as tidal and nontidal. Tidal
length the lunar or solar day and corresponds to the period currents are caused by gravitational interactions between the
of a diurnal constituent or twice the period of a semidiurnal Sun, Moon, and Earth and are part of the same general
constituent. T he term is not applicable to the long-period movement of the sea that is manifested in the vertical rise
constituents. and fall, called tide. Tidal currents are periodic with a net
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velocity of zero over the particular tidal cycle. See tidal current line A graduated line attached to a current
wave. Nontidal currents include the permanent currents in pole formerly used in measuring the velocity of the current.
the general circulatory systems of the sea as well as The line was marked in such a manner that the speed of the
temporary currents arising from more pronounced current, expressed in knots and tenths, was indicated
meteorological variability. Current, however, is also the directly by the length of line carried out by the current pole
British equivalent of our nontidal current. See total current. in a specified interval of time. W hen marked for a
current constants Tidal current relations that remain 60-second run, the principal divisions for whole knots were
practically constant for any particular locality. Current spaced at 101.33 feet and the subdivisions for tenths of
constants are classified as harmonic and nonharmonic. The knots were spaced at 10.13 feet. The current line was also
harmonic constants consist of the amplitudes and epochs of known as a log line.
the harmonic constituents, and the nonharmonic constants current meter An instrument for measuring the
include the velocities and intervals derived directly from the speed and direction or just the speed of a current. The
current observations. measurements are Eulerian when the meter is fixed or
current curve A graphic representation of the flow moored at a specific location. Current meters can be
of the current. In the reversing type of tidal current, the mechanical, electric, electromagnetic, acoustic, or any
curve is referred to rectangular coordinates with time combination thereof.
represented by the abscissa and the speed of the current by current pole A pole used in observing the velocity of
the ordinate, the flood speeds being considered as positive the current. The pole formerly used by the Coast and
and the ebb speeds as negative. In general, the current curve Geodetic Survey was about 3 inches in diameter and 15 feet
for a reversing tidal current approximates a cosine curve. long, and was weighted at one end to float upright with the
current diagram A graphic table published in the top about 1 foot out of water. Shorter poles were used when
Tidal Current Tables showing the speeds of the flood and necessary for shallow water. In use, the pole was attached
ebb currents and the times of slacks and strengths over a to the current line but separated from the graduated portion
considerable stretch of the channel of a tidal waterway, the by an ungraded section of approximately 100 feet, known as
times being referred to tide or tidal current phases at some the stray line. As the pole was carried out from an observing
reference station. vessel by the current, the amount of line passing from the
current difference Difference between the time of vessel during a specific time interval indicated the speed of
slack water (or minimum current) or strength of current in the current. The set was obtained from a relative bearing
any locality and the time of the corresponding phase of the from the vessel to the pole. The bearing was then related to
tidal current at a reference station for which predictions are the ship's compass and converted to true. See pelorus.
given in the Tidal Current Tables. current station The geographic location at which
current direction Same as set. current observations are conducted. Also, the facilities used
current ellipse A graphic representation of a rotary to make current observations. These may include a buoy,
current in which the velocity of the current at different hours ground tackle, current meters, recording mechanism, and
of the tidal cycle is represented by radius vectors and radio transmitter. See control current station and
vectoral angles. A line joining the extremities of the radius subordinate current station (1).
vectors will form a curve roughly approximating an ellipse. cyclonic ring A meander breaking off from the main
The cycle is completed in one-half tidal day or in a whole oceanic current and spinning in a counter-clockwise
tidal day, according to whether the tidal current is of the direction in the northern hemisphere (clockwise in
semidiurnal or the diurnal type. A current of the mixed type southern).
will give a curve of two unequal loops each tidal day.
current hour The mean interval between the transit D
of the Moon over the meridian of Greenwich and the time data collection platform (DCP) A microprocessor-
of strength of flood, modified by the times of slack water based system that collects data from sensors, processes the
(or minimum current) and strength of ebb. In computing the data, stores the data in random access memory (RAM), and
mean current hour, an average is obtained of the intervals provides communication links for the retrieval or
for the following phases: flood strength, slack (or minimum) transmission of the data.
before flood increased by 3.10 hours (one-fourth of tidal datum (vertical) For marine applications, a base
cycle), slack (or minimum) after flood decreased by 3.10 elevation used as a reference from which to reckon heights
hours, and ebb strength increased or decreased by 6.21 or depths. It is called a tidal datum when defined in terms of
hours (one-half of tidal cycle). Before taking the average, a certain phase of the tide. Tidal datums are local datums
the four phases are made comparable by the addition or and should not be extended into areas which have differing
rejection of such multiples of 12.42 hours as may be hydrographic characteristics without substantiating
necessary. The current hour is usually expressed in solar measurements. In order that they may be recovered when
time, but if lunar time is desired, the solar hour should be needed, such datums are referenced to fixed points known
multiplied by the factor 0.966. as bench marks. See chart datum.
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datum of tabulation A permanent base elevation at deviation (of compass) The deflection of the needle
a tide station to which all water level measurements are of a magnetic compass due to masses of magnetic metal
referred. The datum is unique to each station and is within a ship on which the compass is located. This
established at a lower elevation than the water is ever deflection varies with different headings of the ship. The
expected to reach. It is referenced to the primary bench deviation is called easterly and marked plus if the deflection
mark at the station and is held constant regardless of is to the right of magnetic north, and is called westerly and
changes to the water level gauge or tide staff. The datum of marked minus if it is to the left of magnetic north. A
tabulation is most often at the zero of the first tide staff deviation table is a tabular arrangement showing the amount
installed. of deviation for different headings of the ship. Each
Davidson Current A North Pacific Ocean counter- compass requires a separate deviation table.
current setting northward between the California Current digital tide (water level) gauge See automatic tide
and the coasts of California, Oregon, and W ashington (water level) gauge.
during the winter months. direct method A tidal datum computation method.
day The period of rotation of the Earth. There are Datums are determined directly by comparison with an
several kinds of days depending on whether the Sun, Moon, appropriate control, for the available part of the tidal cycle.
or other object or location is used as the reference for the It is usually used only when a full range of tidal values are
rotation. See constituent day, lunar day, sidereal day, and not available. For example: Direct Mean High W ater, when
solar day. low waters are not recorded.
daylight saving time A time used during the summer direction of current Same as set.
months, in some localities, in which clocks are advanced 1 direction of wind Direction from which the wind is
hour from the usual standard time. blowing.
decibar The practical unit for pressure in the ocean, diurnal Having a period or cycle of approximately
equal to 10 centibars, and is the approximate pressure one tidal day. Thus, the tide is said to be diurnal when only
produced by each meter of overlying water one high water and one low water occur during a tidal day,
declination Angular distance north or south of the and the tidal current is said to be diurnal when there is a
celestial equator, taken as positive when north of the single flood and a single ebb period of a reversing current
equator and negative when south. The Sun passes through in the tidal day. A rotary current is diurnal if it changes its
its declinational cycle once a year, reaching its maximum direction through all points of the compass once each tidal
north declination of approximately 23- about June 21 and day. A diurnal constituent is one which has a single period
its maximum south declination of approximately 23- in the constituent day. The symbol for such a constituent is
about December 21. The Moon has an average declinational the subscript 1. See stationary wave theory and type of tide.
cycle of 27- days which is called a tropical month. Tides diurnal inequality The difference in height of the
or tidal currents occurring near the times of maximum north two high waters or of the two low waters of each tidal day;
or south declination of the Moon are called tropic tides or also, the difference in speed between the two flood tidal
tropic currents, and those occurring when the Moon is over currents or the two ebb currents of each tidal day. The
the Equator are called equatorial tides or equatorial difference changes with the declination of the Moon and, to
currents. The maximum declination reached by the Moon in a lesser extent, with the declination of the Sun. In general,
successive months depends upon the longitude of the the inequality tends to increase with increasing declination,
Moon's node, and varies from 28- when the longitude of either north or south, and to diminish as the Moon
the ascending node is 0, to 18- when the longitude of the approaches the Equator. Mean diurnal high water inequality
node is 180 . The node cycle, or time required for the node (DHQ) is one-half the average difference between the two
to complete a circuit of 360 of longitude, is approximately high waters of each tidal day observed over the National
18.6 years. See epoch (2). Tidal Datum Epoch. It is obtained by subtracting the mean
declinational inequality Same as diurnal inequality. of all the high waters from the mean of the higher high
declinational reduction A processing of observed waters. Mean diurnal low water inequality (DLQ) is
high and low waters or flood and ebb tidal currents to obtain one-half the average difference between the two low waters
quantities depending upon changes in the declination of the of each tidal day observed over the National Tidal Datum
Moon; such as tropic ranges or speeds, height or speed Epoch. It is obtained by subtracting the mean of the lower
inequalities, and tropic intervals. low waters from the mean of all the low waters. Tropic high
density, in situ ( Ds,t,p) Mass per unit volume. The water inequality (HW Q) is the average difference between
reciprocal of specific volume. In oceanography, the density the two high waters of each tidal day at the times of tropic
of sea water, when expressed in gm/cm 3, is numerically tides. Tropic low water inequality (LW Q) is the average
equivalent to specific gravity and is a function of salinity, difference between the two low waters of each tidal day at
temperature, and pressure. See specific volume anomaly, the times of tropic tides. Mean and tropic inequalities, as
thermosteric anomaly, sigma-t, and sigma-zero. defined above, are applicable only when the type of tide is
6
either semidiurnal or mixed. Diurnal inequality is earth tide Periodic movement of the Earth's crust
sometimes called declinational inequality. caused by gravitational interactions between the Sun, Moon,
diurnal range Same as great diurnal range. and Earth.
diurnal tide level A tidal datum midway between East Africa Coast Current Same as Somali Current.
mean higher high water and mean lower low water. East Australian Current A South Pacific Ocean
double ebb An ebb tidal current having two maxima current setting southward along the east coast of Australia.
of speed separated by a smaller ebb speed. East Greenland Current A North Atlantic Ocean
double flood A flood tidal current having two current setting southward and then southwestward along the
maxima of speed separated by a smaller flood speed. east coast of Greenland.
double tide A double-headed tide, that is, a high ebb axis Average set of the current at ebb strength.
water consisting of two maxima of nearly the same height ebb current (ebb) The movement of a tidal current
separated by a relatively small depression, or a low water away from shore or down a tidal river or estuary. In the
consisting of two minima separated by a relatively small mixed type of reversing tidal current, the terms greater ebb
elevation. Sometimes called an agger. See gulder. and lesser ebb are applied respectively to ebb tidal currents
drift (of current) The speed of the current. of greater and lesser speed each day. The terms maximum
drift current Same as wind drift. ebb and minimum ebb are applied to the maximum and
duration of flood and duration of ebb Duration of minimum speeds of a current running continuously ebb, the
flood is the interval of time in which a tidal current is speed alternately increasing and decreasing without coming
flooding, and duration of ebb is the interval in which it is to a slack or reversing. The expression maximum ebb is also
ebbing, these intervals being reckoned from the middle of applicable to any ebb current at the time of greatest speed.
the intervening slack waters or minimum currents. Together See ebb strength.
they cover, on an average, a period of 12.42 hours for a ebb interval The interval between the transit of the
semidiurnal tidal current or a period of 24.84 hours for a Moon over the meridian of a place and the time of the
diurnal current. In a normal semidiurnal tidal current, the following ebb strength.
duration of flood and duration of ebb each will be ebb strength (strength of ebb) Phase of the ebb tidal
approximately equal to 6.21 hours, but the times may be current at the time of maximum speed. Also, the speed at
modified greatly by the presence of nontidal flow. In a river this time. See strength of current.
the duration of ebb is usually longer than the duration of eccentricity of orbit Ratio of the distance from the
flood because of fresh water discharge, especially during center to the focus of an elliptical orbit to the length of the
spring months when snow and ice melt are predominant semimajor axis. The eccentricity of orbit = %1 - (B / A) 2:
influences. where A and B are respectively the semimajor and
duration of rise and duration of fall Duration of semiminor axes of the orbit.
rise is the interval from low water to high water, and ecliptic The intersection of the plane of the Earth's
duration of fall is the interval from high water to low water. orbit with the celestial sphere.
Together they cover, on an average, a period of 12.42 hours eddy A quasi-circular movement of water whose area
for a semidiurnal tide or a period of 24.84 hours for a is relatively small in comparison to the current with which
diurnal tide. In a normal semidiurnal tide, duration of rise it is associated.
and duration of fall each will be approximately equal to edge waves W aves moving between zones of high
6.21 hours, but in shallow waters and in rivers there is a and low breakers along the shoreline. Edge waves
tendency for a decrease in duration of rise and a contribute to changes in water level along the shoreface
corresponding increase in duration of fall. which helps to control the spacing of rip currents. See
dynamic decimeter See geopotential as preferred longshore current and rip current.
term. Ekman spiral A logarithmic spiral (when projected
dynamic depth (height) See geopotential difference on a horizontal plane) formed by the heads of current
as preferred term. velocity vectors at increasing depths. The current vectors
dynamic depth (height) anomaly See geopotential become progressively smaller with depth. They spiral to the
anomaly as preferred term. right (looking in the direction of flow) in the Northern
dynamic meter (D) The former practical unit for
Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern with increasing
geopotential difference (dynamic depth), equal to 10
depth. Theoretically, in deep water, the surface current
geopotentials (dynamic decimeters). See geopotential
(dynamic depth) anomaly. vector sets 45 and the total mass transport sets 90 from
dynamic topography See geopotential topography the direction toward which the wind is blowing. Flow
as preferred term. opposite to the surface current occurs at the so-called "depth
of frictional resistance". The phenomenon occurs in wind
E drift currents in which only the Coriolis and frictional forces
eagre (eager) Same as tidal bore. are significant. Named for Vagn W alfrid Ekman who,
7
assuming a constant eddy viscosity, steady wind stress, and apparent time with maximum difference less than 7 minutes.
unlimited water depth and extent, derived the effect in 1905. From the first of September until the later part of December,
electric tape gauge A gauge consisting of a mean time is again behind apparent time, the difference
graduated Monel metal tape on a metal reel (with reaching a maximum of nearly 17 minutes in the early part
supporting frame), voltmeter, and battery. H eights can be of November. The equation of time for each day in the year
measured directly by unreeling the tape into its stilling well. is given in the American Ephemeris and Nautical Almanac.
W hen contact is made with the water's surface, the circuit is Equatorial Countercurrent A current setting
completed and the voltmeter needle moves. At that moment eastward between the North and South Equatorial Currents
the length of tape is read against an index mark, the mark of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian (in northern winter)
having a known elevation relative to the bench marks. Oceans. In the Atlantic and Pacific, its axis lies about
elimination One of the final processes in the latitude 7 north and in the Indian, about 7 south.
harmonic analysis of tides in which preliminary values for equatorial tidal currents Tidal currents occurring
the harmonic constants of a number of constituents are semimonthly as a result of the Moon being over the
cleared of the residual effects of each other. Equator. At these times the tendency of the Moon to
epoch (1) Also known as phase lag. Angular produce a diurnal inequality in the tidal current is at a
retardation of the maximum of a constituent of the observed minimum.
tide (or tidal current) behind the corresponding maximum equatorial tides Tides occurring semimonthly as a
of the same constituent of the theoretical equilibrium tide. result of the Moon being over the Equator. At these times
It may also be defined as the phase difference between a the tendency of the Moon to produce a diurnal inequality in
tidal constituent and its equilibrium argument. As referred the tide is at a minimum.
to the local equilibrium argument, its symbol is 6. W hen Equatorial Undercurrent A subsurface current set-
referred to the corresponding Greenwich equilibrium ting eastward along the Equator in the Pacific, Atlantic, and
argument, it is called the Greenwich epoch and is Indian Oceans. In the Pacific, its core of maximum velocity
represented by G. A Greenwich epoch that has been lies at a depth of about 100 meters within the South
modified to adjust to a particular time meridian for Equatorial Current.
convenience in the prediction of tides is represented by g or equilibrium argument The theoretical phase of a
by 6N. The relations between these epochs may be expressed constituent of the equilibrium tide. It is usually represented
by the following formula: by the expression (V + u), in which V is a uniformly
G = 6 + pL changing angular quantity involving multiples of the hour
g = 6N = G aS / 15 angle of the mean Sun, the mean longitudes of the Moon
in which L is the longitude of the place and S is the and Sun, and the mean longitude of lunar or solar perigee;
longitude of the time meridian, these being taken as positive and u is a slowly changing angle depending upon the
for west longitude and negative for east longitude; p is the longitude of the Moon's node. W hen pertaining to an initial
number of constituent periods in the constituent day and is instant of time, such as the beginning of a series of
equal to 0 for all long-period constituents, 1 for diurnal observations, it is expressed by (V o+ u).
constituents, 2 for semidiurnal constituents, and so forth; equilibrium theory A model under which it is as-
and a is the hourly speed of the constituent, all angular sumed that the waters covering the face of the Earth
measurements being expressed in degrees. (2) As used in instantly respond to the tide-producing forces of the Moon
tidal datum determination, it is a 19-year cycle over which and Sun to form a surface of equilibrium under the action of
tidal height observations are meaned in order to establish these forces. The model disregards friction, inertia, and the
the various datums. As there are periodic and apparent irregular distribution of the land masses of the Earth. The
secular trends in sea level, a specific 19-year cycle (the theoretical tide formed under these conditions is known as
National Tidal Datum Epoch) is selected so that all tidal the equilibrium tide.
datum determinations throughout the United States, its equilibrium tide Hypothetical tide due to the tide
territories, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and Trust producing forces under the equilibrium theory. Also known
Territory of the Pacific Islands, will have a common as gravitational tide.
reference. See National Tidal Datum Epoch. equinoctial The celestial equator.
equation of time Difference between mean and equinoctial tides Tides occurring near the times of
apparent time. From the beginning of the year until near the the equinoxes.
middle of April, mean time is ahead of apparent time, the equinoxesThe two points in the celestial sphere
difference reaching a maximum of about 15 minutes near where the celestial equator intersects the ecliptic; also, the
the middle of February. From the middle of April to the times when the Sun crosses the equator at these points. The
middle of June, mean time is behind apparent time but the vernal equinox is the point where the Sun crosses the
difference is less than 5 minutes. From the middle of June Equator from south to north and it occurs about March 21.
to the first part of September, mean time is again ahead of Celestial longitude is reckoned eastward from the vernal
8
equinox. The autumnal equinox is the point where the Sun mixed type of reversing current, the terms greater flood and
crosses the Equator from north to south and it occurs about lesser flood are applied respectively to the two flood
September 23. currents of greater and lesser speed of each day. The
equipotential surface Same as geopotential surface. expression maximum flood is applicable to any flood
establishment of the port Also known as high water, current at the time of greatest speed. See flood strength.
full and change (HW F&C). Average high water interval on flood interval The interval between the transit of the
days of the new and full Moon. This interval is also Moon over the meridian of a place and the time of the
sometimes called the common or vulgar establishment to following flood strength.
distinguish it from the corrected establishment, the latter flood strength (strength of flood) Phase of the flood
being the mean of all the high water intervals. The latter is tidal current at the time of maximum speed. Also, the speed
usually 10 to 15 minutes less than the common at this time. See strength of current.
establishment. Florida Current A North Atlantic Ocean current
estuary An embayment of the coast in which fresh setting northward along the south-east coast of the United
river water entering at its head mixes with the relatively States. A segment of the Gulf Stream System, the Florida
saline ocean water. W hen tidal action is the dominant Current extends from the Straits of Florida to the region off
mixing agent it is usually termed a tidal estuary. Also, the Cape Hatteras.
lower reaches and mouth of a river emptying directly into flow The British equivalent of the United States total
the sea where tidal mixing takes place. The latter is current. Flow is the combination of tidal stream and current.
sometimes called a river estuary. flushing time The time required to remove or reduce
Eulerian measurement Observation of a current (to a permissible concentration) any dissolved or suspended
with a device fixed relative to the flow. contaminant in an estuary or harbor.
eustatic sea level rate The worldwide change of sea forced wave A wave generated and maintained by a
level elevation with time. The changes are due to such continuous force.
causes as glacial melting or formation, thermal expansion or fortnight The time elasped between the new and full
contraction of sea water, etc. moons. Half a synodical month or 14.765,294 days. See
evection A perturbation of the Moon depending upon synodical month.
the alternate increase and decrease of the eccentricity of its Fourier series A series proposed by the French
orbit, which is always a maximum when the Sun is passing mathematician Fourier about the year 1807. The series
the Moon's line of apsides and a minimum when the Sun is involves the sines and cosines of whole multiples of a
at right angles to it. The principal constituents in the tide varying angle and is usually written in the following form:
resulting from the evectional inequality are <2, 82, and D1. y =A B + A 1 sin x + A 2 sin 2x + A 3 sin 3x + ... B 1 cos x + B 2
extreme high water The highest elevation reached cos 2x + B 3 cos 3x + ...
by the sea as recorded by a water level gauge during a given By taking a sufficient number of terms the series may be
period. The National Ocean Service routinely documents assumed to represent any periodic function of x.
monthly and yearly extreme high waters for its control free waveA wave that continues to exist after the
stations. generating force has ceased to act. See gravity wave.
extreme low water The lowest elevation reached by
the sea as recorded by a water level gauge during a given G
period. The National Ocean Service routinely documents gage See tide (water level) gauge.
monthly and yearly extreme low water for its control Galofaro A whirlpool in the Strait of Messina; at one
stations. time called Charybdis.
gas purged pressure gauge A type of water level
F gauge in which gas, usually nitrogen, is emitted from a
Falkland Current A South Atlantic Ocean current submerged orifice at a constant rate. Fluctuations in
setting northeastward along the east coast of Argentina. hydrostatic pressure due to changes in water level modify
first reduction A method of determining high and the recorded emission rate. Same as bubbler tide (water
low water heights, time intervals, and ranges from an level) gauge.
arithmetic mean without adjustment to a long-term series gauge See tide (water level) gauge.
through comparison of simultaneous observations. geodetic datum See National Geodetic Vertical
float well A stilling well in which the float of a Datum of 1929 (NGVD 1929) and North American Vertical
float-actuated water level gauge operates. See stilling well. Datum of 1988 (NAVD 1988).
flood axis The average set of the tidal current at geopotential The unit of geopotential difference,
strength of flood. equal to the gravity potential of 1 meter squared per second
flood current (flood) The movement of a tidal cur- squared, m 2 / s 2, or 1 joule per kilogram, J / kg.
rent toward the shore or up a tidal river or estuary. In the
9
geopotential anomaly ()D)The excess in geopoten- Gregorian calendar The modern calendar in which
tial difference over the standard geopotential difference [at every year divisible by 4 (excepting century years) and
a standard specific volume at 35 parts per thousand ( ) and every century year divisible by 400 are bissextile (or leap)
0 degrees C] between isobaric surfaces. See geopotential years with 366 days. All other years are common years with
and geopotential topography. 365 days. The average length of this year is, therefore,
P2 365.242,5 days which agrees very closely with the length of
)D = I *dp the tropical year (the period of changes in seasons). The
P1
Gregorian calendar was introduced by Pope Gregory in
where p is the pressure and *, the specific volume anomaly. 1582, and immediately adopted by the Catholic countries in
P 1 and P 2 are the pressures at the two surfaces. place of the Julian calendar previously in use. In making the
geopotential difference The work per unit mass change it was ordered that the day following October 4,
gained or required in moving a unit mass vertically from 1582, of the Julian calendar be designated October 15,
one geopotential surface to another. See geopotential, 1582, of the Gregorian calendar; the 10 days being dropped
geopotential anomaly, and geopotential topography. in order that the vernal equinox would fall on March 21.
geopotential (equipotential) surface A surface that The Gregorian calendar was not adopted by England until
is everywhere normal to the acceleration of gravity. 1752, but is now in general use throughout the world.
geopotential topography The topography of an Guiana Current An Atlantic Ocean current setting
equiscalar (usually isobaric) surface in terms of geopotential northwestward along the north-east coast of South America.
difference. As depicted on maps, isopleths are formed by Guinea Current An Atlantic Ocean current setting
the intersection of the isobaric surface with a series of eastward along the west central coast of Africa. A
geopotential surfaces. Thus, the field of isopleths represents continuation of the Equatorial Counter Current of the
variations in the geopotential anomaly of the isobaric Atlantic Ocean.
surface above a chosen reference isobaric surface (such as gulder Local name given to the double low water
a level of no motion). occurring on the south coast of England. See double tide.
geostrophic flow A solution of the relative hydro-
Gulf Coast Low W ater Datum (GCLW D) A tidal
dynamic equations of motion in which it is assumed that the
datum. Used as chart datum from November 14, 1977, to
horizontal component of the Coriolis force is balanced by
November 27, 1980, for the coastal waters of the Gulf coast
the horizontal component of the pressure gradient force.
of the United States. GCLW D is defined as mean lower low
gradient flow A solution of the relative hydrody-
water when the type of tide is mixed and mean low water
namic equations of motion in which only the horizontal
Coriolis, pressure gradient, and centrifugal forces are (now mean lower low water) when the type of tide is
considered. diurnal. See National Tidal Datum Convention of 1980.
gravitational tide Same as equilibrium tide. Gulf Coast Low W ater Datum line The line on a
gravity wave A wave for which the restoring force is chart or map which represents the intersection of the land
gravity. with the water surface at the elevation of Gulf Coast Low
great diurnal range (Gt) The difference in height W ater Datum.
between mean higher high water and mean lower low water. Gulf Stream A North Atlantic Ocean current setting
The expression may also be used in its contracted form, northeastward off the east coast of the United States. A
diurnal range. segment of the Gulf Stream System, the Gulf Stream
great tropic range (Gc) The difference in height extends from the region off Cape Hatteras to an area
between tropic higher high water and tropic lower low southeast of the Grand Banks at about latitude 40 north,
water. The expression may also be used in its contracted longitude 50 west. It continues the flow of the Florida
form, tropic range. Current to the North Atlantic Current.
Greenwich argument Equilibrium argument com- Gulf Stream System The continuous current system
puted for the meridian of Greenwich. composed of the Florida Current, Gulf Stream, and North
Greenwich epoch See epoch (1). Atlantic Current.
Greenwich interval An interval referred to the
H
transit of the Moon over the meridian of Greenwich, as
h Rate of change (as of January 1, 1900) in mean
distinguished from the local interval which is referred to the longitude of the Sun.
Moon's transit over the local meridian. The relation in hours h = 0.041,068,64 per solar hour.
between Greenwich and local intervals may be expressed by half-tide level Same as mean tide level.
the formula: halocline A layer in which the salinity changes
Greenwich interval = local interval + 0.069L significantly (relative to the layers above and below) with
where L is the west longitude of the local meridian in depth.
degrees. For east longitude, L is to be considered negative.
10
harmonic analysis The mathematical process by waters (or single high water) of any specified tidal day due
which the observed tide or tidal current at any place is to the declinational effects of the Moon and Sun.
separated into basic harmonic constituents. higher low water (HLW ) The highest of the low
harmonic analyzer A machine designed for the res- waters of any specified tidal day due to the declinational
olution of a periodic curve into its harmonic constituents. effects of the Moon and Sun.
Now performed by electronic digital computer. Humboldt Current Same as Peru Current.
harmonic constants The amplitudes and epochs of hydraulic current A current in a channel caused by
the harmonic constituents of the tide or tidal current at any a difference in the surface elevation at the two ends. Such a
place. current may be expected in a strait connecting two bodies of
harmonic constituent See constituent. water in which the tides differ in time or range. The current
harmonic function In its simplest form, a quantity in the East River, New York, connecting Long Island Sound
that varies as the cosine of an angle that increases and New York Harbor, is an example.
uniformly with time. It may be expressed by the formula: hydrographic datum A datum used for referencing
y = A cos at depths of water and the heights of predicted tides or water
in which y is a function of time (t), A is a constant level observations. Same as chart datum. See datum.
coefficient, and a is the rate of change in the angle at.
harmonic prediction Method of predicting tides and I
tidal currents by combining the harmonic constituents into incremental shaft encoder A component of a water
a single tide curve. The work is usually performed by level gauge for converting length to a shaft angle on a
electronic digital computer. rotating disk. The position of the rotating disk is determined
harmonic reduction Same as harmonic analysis. by single or dual optical or magnetic sensors to provide an
harmonic tide plane Same as Indian spring low electrical output. No electro-mechanical components or
water. gears are used, so extremely low torque is required to move
head The difference in water level at either end of a the float wheel, wire, and float mechanism.
strait, channel, inlet, etc. Indian spring low water A datum originated by
head of tide The inland or upstream limit of water Professor G. H. Darwin when investigating the tides of
affected by the tide. For practical application in the India. It is an elevation depressed below mean sea level by
tabulation for computation of tidal datums, head of tide is an amount equal to the sum of the amplitudes of he
the inland or upstream point where the mean range becomes harmonic constituents M 2, S 2, K 1, and O 1.
less than 0.2 foot. Tidal datums (except for mean water Indian tide plane Same as Indian spring low water.
level) are not computed beyond head of tide. inequality A systematic departure from the mean
high tide Same as high water. value of a tidal quantity. See diurnal inequality, parallax
high w ater (HW ) The maximum height reached by inequality, and phase inequality.
a rising tide. The high water is due to the periodic tidal inertial flow A solution of the relative hydrodynamic
forces and the effects of meteorological, hydrologic, and/or equations of motion in which only the horizontal component
oceanographic conditions. For tidal datum computational of the Coriolis and centrifugal forces are balanced. This
purposes, the maximum height is not considered a high anticyclonic flow results from a sudden application and
water unless it contains a tidal high water. release of a driving force which then allows the system to
high water, full and change (HW F&C) Same as continue on under its own momentum without further
establishment of the port. interference. The period of rotation is 2 B / 2 S sin , where
high water inequality See diurnal inequality. S = 0.729,211 x 10 -4 radians s -1 and = latitude.
high water interval (HW I) See lunitidal interval. internal tide A tidal wave propagating along a sharp
high water line The intersection of the land with the density discontinuity, such as a thermocline, or in an area of
water surface at an elevation of high water. gradually changing (vertically) density.
high water mark A line or mark left upon tide flats, International Great Lakes Datum (1985) [IGLD
beach, or along shore objects indicating the elevation of the 1985] Mean water level at Rimouski/Pointe-au-Pere,
intrusion of high water. The mark may be a line of oil or Quebec, on the Gulf of St. Lawrence over the period 1970
scum on along shore objects, or a more or less continuous through 1988, from which geopotential elevations
deposit of fine shell or debris on the foreshore or berm. (geopotential differences) throughout the Great Lakes
This mark is physical evidence of the general height region are measured. The term is often used to mean the
reached by wave run up at recent high waters. It should not entire system of geopotential elevations rather than just the
be confused with the mean high water line or mean higher referenced water level. See low water datum (1).
high water line. International Hydrographic Organization (formerly
higher high water (HHW ) The highest of the high Bureau) An institution consisting of representatives of a
number of nations organized for the purpose of coordinating
11
the hydrographic work of the participating governments. It They account for diurnal inequality and, at extremes,
had its origin in the International Hydrographic Conference diurnal tides. W ith P 1, it expresses the effect of the Sun's
in London in 1919. It has permanent headquarters in the declination.
Principality of Monaco and is supported by funds provided Speed = T + h = 15.041,068,6 per solar hour.
by the member nations. Its principal publications include K 2 Lunisolar semi diurnal constituent. This con-
the Hydrographic Review and special publications on stituent modulates the amplitude and frequency of M 2 and
technical subjects. S 2 for the declinational effect of the Moon and Sun,
intertidal zone (technical definition) The zone be- respectively.
tween the mean higher high water and mean lower low Speed = 2T + 2h = 30.082,137,3 per solar hour.
water lines. kappa ( 6) Name of Greek letter used as the symbol
interval See lunitidal interval and lunicurrent inter- for a constituent phase lag or epoch when referred to the
val. local equilibrium argument and frequently taken to mean the
inverse barometer effect The inverse response of same as local epoch. See epoch (1).
sea level to changes in atmospheric pressure. A static kappa prime ( 6t) Name of Greek letter (with prime
reduction of 1.005 mb in atmospheric pressure will cause mark) used as the symbol for a constituent phase lag or
a stationary rise of 1 cm in sea level. epoch when the Greenwich equilibrium argument (G) has
Irminger Current A North Atlantic Ocean current been modified to a particular time meridian. Same as g. See
setting westward off the south-west coast of Iceland. kappa ( 6) and epoch (1).
isanostere An isopleth of either specific volume knot A speed unit of 1 international nautical mile
anomaly or thermosteric anomaly. (1,852.0 meters or 6,076.115,49 international feet) per hour.
isobar An isopleth of pressure. Kuroshio "Black Stream" in Japanese. A North
isobaric surface A surface of constant or uniform Pacific Ocean current setting northeastward off the east
pressure. coast of Taiwan and Japan from Taiwan to about latitude
isohaline An isopleth of salinity. Constant or uni- 35 north.
form in salinity. Kuroshio Extension A North Pacific Ocean current
isopleth A line of constant or uniform value of a setting eastward from about longitude 145 east to about
given quantity. See isanostere, isobar, isohaline, isopycnic, 160 east. It continues the flow of the Kuroshio to the North
and isotherm. Pacific Current.
isopycnic An isopleth of density. Constant or uni- Kuroshio System The current system composed of
form in density. the Kuroshio, Tsushima Current, Kuroshio Extension, and
isotherm An isopleth of temperature.
North Pacific Current.
J
J 1 Smaller lunar elliptic diurnal constituent. This L
constituent, with M 1, modulates the amplitudes of the L 2 Smaller lunar elliptic semi diurnal constituent.
declinational K 1, for the effect of the M oon's elliptical orbit. This constituent, with N 2, modulates the amplitude and
Speed = T + s + h - p = 15.585,443,3 per solar hour. frequency of M 2 for the effect of variation in the Moon's
Japan Current Same as Kuroshio. orbital speed due to its elliptical orbit.
Julian calendar A calendar introduced by Julius Speed = 2T s + 2h p = 29.528,478,9 per solar hour.
Caesar in the year 45 B.C., and slightly modified by Labrador Current A North Atlantic Ocean current
Augustus a few years later. This calendar provided that the setting southeastward along the east coasts of Baffin Island,
common year should consist of 365 days and that every Labrador, and Newfoundland.
fourth year, now known as a bissextile or leap year, should lagging of tide The periodic retardation in the time
contain 366 days, making the average length of the year of occurrence of high and low water due to changes in the
365.25 days. It differs from the modern or Gregorian relative positions of the Moon and Sun.
calendar in having every fourth year a leap year, while in Lagrangian measurement Observation of a current
the modern calendar century years not divisible by 400 are with a device moving with the current.
common years. See Gregorian calendar. lambda ( 82) Smaller lunar evectional constituent.
Julian date Technique for the identification of suc- This constituent, with <2, :2, and (S 2), modulates the
cessive days of the year when monthly notation is not amplitude and frequency of M 2 for the effects of variation
desired. This is especially applicable in computer data in solar attraction of the Moon. This attraction results in a
processing and acquisition where indexing is necessary. slight pear-shaped lunar ellipse and a difference in lunar
orbital speed between motion toward and away from the
K Sun. Although (S 2) has the same speed as S 2, its amplitude
K 1 Lunisolar diurnal constituent. This constituent, is extremely small.
with O 1, expresses the effect of the Moon's declination. Speed = 2T s + p = 29.455,625,3 per solar hour.
12
latitude The angular distance between a terrestrial ecliptic eastward from the vernal equinox. The mean
position and the equator measured northward or southward longitude of a celestial body moving in an orbit is the
from the equator along a meridian of longitude. longitude that would be attained by a point moving
leap year A calendar year containing 366 days. uniformly in the circle of reference at the same average
According to the present Gregorian calendar, all years with angular velocity as that of the body, with the initial position
the date-number divisible by 4 are leap years, except of the point so taken that its longitude would be the same as
century years. The latter are leap years when the that of the body at a certain specified position in its orbit.
date-number is divisible by 400. W ith a common initial point, the mean longitude of a body
level of no motion A level (or layer) at which it is will be the same in whatever circle it may be reckoned.
assumed that an isobaric surface coincides with a longshore current A current paralleling the shore
geopotential surface. A level (or layer) at which there is no largely within the surf zone. It is caused by the excess water
horizontal pressure gradient force. brought to the zone by the small net mass transport of wind
level surface See geopotential surface as preferred waves. Long shore currents feed into rip currents. See
term. progressive wave.
littoral current A current in the littoral zone such as loop of stationary wave That portion of the os-
a long shore or rip current. cillating area where the vertical movement is greatest.
littoral zone In coastal engineering, the area from Loop Current A current setting clockwise in the
the shoreline to just beyond the breaker zone. In biological Gulf of Mexico. It enters through the Yucatan Channel from
oceanography, it is that part of the benthic division the Caribbean Sea and leaves through the Straits of Florida.
extending from the high water line out to a depth of about low tide Same as low water.
200 meters. The littoral system is divided into a eulittoral low water (LW ) The minimum height reached by a
and sublittoral zone, separated at a depth of about 50 falling tide. The low water is due to the periodic tidal forces
meters. Also, frequently used interchangeably with and the effects of meteorological, hydrologic, and/or
intertidal zone. oceanographic conditions. For tidal datum computational
local epoch See kappa ( 6) and epoch (1). purposes, the minimum height is not considered a low water
local time Time in which noon is defined by the unless it contains a tidal low water.
transit of the Sun over the local meridian as distinguished low water datum (LW D) (1) The geopotential
from standard time which is based upon the transit of the elevation (geopotential difference) for each of the Great
Sun over a standard meridian. Local time may be either Lakes and Lake St. Clair and the corresponding sloping
mean or apparent, according to whether reference is to the surfaces of the St. Marys, St. Clair, Detroit, Niagara, and St.
Lawrence Rivers to which are referred the depths shown on
mean or actual Sun. Local time was in general use in the
the navigational charts and the authorized depths for
United States until 1883, when standard time was adopted. navigation improvement projects. Elevations of these planes
The use of local time in other parts of the world has also are referred to IGLD 1985 and are Lake Superior 183.2
been practically abandoned in favor of the more convenient meters, Lakes Michigan and Huron 176.0 meters, Lake St.
standard time. Clair 174.4 meters, Lake Erie173.5 meters, and Lake
log line A graduated line used to measure the speed Ontario 74.2 meters. (2) An approximation of mean low
of a vessel through the water or to measure the velocity of water that has been adopted as a standard reference for a
the current from a vessel at anchor. See current line. limited area and is retained for an indefinite period
long period constituent A tidal or tidal current regardless of the fact that it may differ slightly from a better
determination of mean low water from a subsequent series
constituent with a period that is independent of the rotation
of observations. Used primarily for river and harbor
of the Earth but which depends upon the orbital movement engineering purposes. Boston low water datum is an
of the Moon or the Earth. The principal lunar long period example.
constituents have periods approximating a month and half low water equinoctial springs Low water springs
a month, and the principal solar long period constituents near the times of the equinoxes. Expressed in terms of the
have periods approximating a year and half a year. harmonic constants, it is an elevation depressed below mean
long period waves (long waves) Forced or free sea level by an amount equal to the sum of the amplitudes
waves whose lengths are much longer than the water depth. of the constituents M 2, S 2, and K 2.
See tidal wave and tsunami. low water inequality See diurnal inequality.
longitude Angular distance along a great circle of low water interval (LW I) See lunitidal interval.
reference reckoned from an accepted origin to the low w ater line The intersection of the land with the
projection of any point on that circle. Longitude on the water surface at an elevation of low water.
Earth's surface is measured on the Equator east and west of lower high water (LHW ) The lowest of the high
the meridian of Greenwich and may be expressed either in waters of any specified tidal day due to the declinational
degrees or in hours, the hour being taken as the equivalent effects of the Moon and Sun.
of 15 of longitude. Celestial longitude is measured in the
13
low er low water (LLW ) The lowest of the low to whether the reference is to the Moon's transit over the
waters (or single low water) of any specified tidal day due local or Greenwich meridian. W hen not otherwise specified,
to the declinational effects of the Moon and Sun. the reference is assumed to be local. For a and b markings,
lower low water datum (LLWD)An approximation see lunitidal interval.
of mean lower low water that has been adopted as a lunisolar tidesHarmonic tidal constituents K 1, and
standard reference for a limited area and is retained for an K 2, which are derived partly from the development of the
indefinite period regardless of the fact that it may differ lunar tide and partly from the solar tide, the constituent
slightly from a better determination of mean lower low speeds being the same in both cases. Also, the lunisolar
water from a subsequent series of observations. Used synodic fortnightly constituent MSf.
primarily for river and harbor engineering purposes. lunitidal interval The interval between the Moon's
Columbia River lower low water datum is an example. transit (upper or lower) over the local or Greenwich
lowest astronomical tide As defined by the meridian and the following high or low water. The average
International Hydrographic Organization, the lowest tide of all high water intervals for all phases of the Moon is
level that can be predicted to occur under average known as mean high water lunitidal interval and is
meteorological conditions and under any combination of abbreviated to high water interval (HW I). Similarly, mean
astronomical conditions. low water lunitidal interval is abbreviated to low water
lunar cycle An ambiguous expression which has interval (LW I). The interval is described as local or
been applied to various cycles associated with the Moon's Greenwich according to whether the reference is to the
motion. See Callippic cycle, Metonic cycle, node cycle, and transit over the local or Greenwich meridian. W hen not
synodical month. otherwise specified, the reference is assumed to be local.
lunar day The time of the rotation of the Earth with W hen there is considerable diurnal inequality in the tide,
respect to the Moon, or the interval between two successive separate intervals may be obtained for the higher high
upper transits of the Moon over the meridian of a place. waters, lower high waters, higher low waters, and lower low
The mean lunar day is approximately 24.84 solar hours in waters. These are designated respectively as higher high
length, or 1.035 times as great as the mean solar day. water interval (HHW I), lower high water interval (LHW I),
lunar interval The difference in time between the higher low water interval (HLW I), and lower low water
transit of the Moon over the meridian of Greenwich and a interval (LLW I). In such cases, and also when the tide is
local meridian. The average value of this interval, diurnal, it is necessary to distinguish between the upper and
expressed in hours, is 0.069 L, where L is the local lower transit of the M oon with reference to its declination.
longitude in degrees, positive for west longitude and Intervals referred to the Moon's upper transit at the time of
negative for east. The lunar interval equals the difference its north declination or the lower transit at the time of south
between the local and Greenwich interval of a tide or declination are marked a. Intervals referred to the Moon's
current phase. lower transit at the time of its north declination or to the
lunar month Same as synodical month. upper transit at the time of south declination are marked b.
lunar nodes The points where the plane of the
Moon's orbit intersects the ecliptic. The point where the M
Moon crosses in going from south to north is called the M 1 Smaller lunar elliptic diurnal constituent. This
ascending node and the point where the crossing is from constituent, with J 1, modulates the amplitude of the
north to south is called the descending node. References are declinational K 1, for the effect of the Moon's elliptical orbit.
usually made to the ascending node which, for brevity, may A slightly slower constituent, designated (M 1), with Q 1,
be called the node. modulates the amplitude and frequency of the declinational
lunar tide That part of the tide on the Earth due O 1, for the same effect.
solely to the Moon as distinguished from that part due to Speed = T s + h + p = 14.496,693,9 per solar hour.
the Sun. M 2 Principal lunar semidiurnal constituent. This
lunar time Time based upon the rotation of the Earth constituent represents the rotation of the Earth with respect
relative to the Moon. See lunar day. to the Moon.
lunation Same as synodical month. Speed = 2T 2s + 2h = 28.984,104,2 per solar hour.
lunicurrent interval The interval between the M 3 Lunar terdiurnal constituent. A shallow water
Moon's transit (upper or lower) over the local or Greenwich compound constituent. See shallow water constituent.
meridian and a specified phase of the tidal current Speed = 3T 3s + 3h = 43.476,156,3 per solar hour.
following the transit. Examples are strength of flood M 4, M 6, M 8 Shallow water overtides of the principal
interval and strength of ebb interval, which may be lunar constituent. See shallow water constituent.
Speed of M 4 = 2M 2 = 4T 4s + 4h = 57.968,208,4 per
abbreviated to flood interval and ebb interval, respectively.
solar hour.
The interval is described as local or Greenwich according
14
Speed of M 6 = 3M 2 = 6T 6s + 6h = 86.952,312,7 per mean of the low water heights occurring at the time of
solar hour. spring tides observed over the National Tidal Datum Epoch.
Speed of M 8 = 4M 2 = 8T 8s + 8h = 115.936,416,9 per It is usually derived by taking an elevation depressed below
solar hour. the half-tide level by an amount equal to one-half the spring
M aelstrom Famous whirlpool off the coast of Nor- range of tide, necessary corrections being applied to reduce
way in the Lofoten Islands between Moskenesoy and the result to a mean value. T his datum is used, to a
Mosken. considerable extent, for hydrographic work outside of the
magnetic azimuth Azimuth reckoned from the United States and is the level of reference for the Pacific
magnetic north or magnetic south. See magnetic direction. approaches to the Panama Canal.
magnetic declination Same as variation. mean lower low water (M LLW ) A tidal datum. The
magnetic direction Direction as indicated by a average of the lower low water height of each tidal day
magnetic compass after correction for deviation but without observed over the National Tidal Datum Epoch. For stations
correction for variation. with shorter series, comparison of simultaneous
marigram A graphic record of the rise and fall of observations with a control tide station is made in order to
water level. The record is in the form of a curve in which derive the equivalent datum of the National Tidal Datum
time is generally represented on the abscissa and the height Epoch.
of the water level on the ordinate. See tide curve. mean lower low w ater line (M LLW L) The line on
marine boundary The mean lower low water line a chart or map which represents the intersection of the land
(MLLW L) when used as a boundary. Also, lines used as with the water surface at the elevation of mean lower low
boundaries seaward of and measured from (or points water.
thereon) the MLLW L. See coastal boundary. mean range of tide (M n) The difference in height
mascaret French for tidal bore. between mean high water and mean low water.
mean current hour Same as current hour. mean rise The height of mean high water above the
mean diurnal tide level (M DTL) A tidal datum. elevation of chart datum.
The arithmetic mean of mean higher high water and mean mean rise interval (M RI) The average interval be-
lower low water. tween the transit of the Moon and the middle of the period
mean high water (M HW ) A tidal datum. The aver-
of the rise of the tide. It may be computed by adding half
age of all the high water heights observed over the National
Tidal Datum Epoch. For stations with shorter series, the duration of rise to the mean low water interval,
comparison of simultaneous observations with a control subtracting the semidiurnal tidal period of 12.42 hours when
tide station is made in order to derive the equivalent datum greater than this amount. The mean rise interval may be
of the National Tidal Datum Epoch. either local or Greenwich according to whether it is referred
mean high water line (M HW L) The line on a chart to the local or Greenwich transit.
or map which represents the intersection of the land with mean river level A tidal datum. The average height
the water surface at the elevation of mean high water. See of the surface of a tidal river at any point for all stages of
shoreline. the tide observed over the National Tidal Datum Epoch. It
mean higher high w ater (M HHW ) A tidal datum. is usually determined from hourly height readings. In rivers
The average of the higher high water height of each tidal subject to occasional freshets, the river level may undergo
day observed over the National Tidal Datum Epoch. For wide variations and, for practical purposes, certain months
stations with shorter series, comparison of simultaneous of the year may be excluded in the determination of the tidal
observations with a control tide station is made in order to datum. For charting purposes, tidal datums for rivers are
derive the equivalent datum of the National Tidal Datum usually based on observations during selected periods when
Epoch. the river is at or near a low water stage.
mean higher high water line (M HHW L) The line mean sea level (M SL) A tidal datum. The arithmetic
on a chart or map which represents the intersection of the mean of hourly heights observed over the National Tidal
land with the water surface at the elevation of mean higher Datum Epoch. Shorter series are specified in the name; e.g.,
high water. monthly mean sea level and yearly mean sea level.
mean low water (M LW ) A tidal datum. The aver- mean sun A fictitious sun which is assumed to move
age of all the low water heights observed over the National in the celestial equator at a uniform speed corresponding to
Tidal Datum Epoch. For stations with shorter series, the average angular speed of the real Sun in the ecliptic, the
comparison of simultaneous observations with a control mean sun being alternately in advance and behind the real
tide station is made in order to derive the equivalent datum Sun. It is used as a reference for reckoning mean time, noon
of the National Tidal Datum Epoch. of mean local time corresponding to the time of the transit
mean low water line (M LW L) The line on a chart of the mean sun over the local meridian. See equation of
or map which represents the intersection of the land with time and mean time.
the water surface at the elevation of mean low water. mean tide level (M TL) A tidal datum. The
mean low water springs (M LW S) A tidal datum. arithmetic mean of mean high water and mean low water.
Frequently abbreviated spring low water. The arithmetic Same as half-tide level.
15
mean time Time based upon the hour angle of the M onsoon Current (Southwest M onsoon Cur-
mean sun as distinguished from apparent time which is rent) An Indian Ocean current setting in a generally
based upon the position of the real Sun. The difference eastward to southeastward direction off India and Ceylon.
between apparent and mean time is known as the equation It replaces the North Equatorial Current, reversed by wind
of time. stress of the south-west monsoons, in August and
mean water level (M W L) A datum. The mean September.
surface elevation as determined by averaging the heights of month The period of the revolution of the Moon
the water at equal intervals of time, usually hourly. Mean around the Earth. The month is designated as siderial,
water level is used in areas of little or no range in tide. tropical, anomalistic, nodical, or synodical according to
mean water level line (M W LL) The line on a chart whether the revolution is relative to a fixed star, vernal
or map which represents the intersection of the land with equinox, perigee, ascending node, or Sun. The calendar
the water surface at the elevation of mean water level. month is a rough approximation to the synodical month.
meteorological tides Tidal constituents having their M Sf Lunisolar synodic fortnightly constituent.
origin in the daily or seasonal variations in weather Speed = 2s 2h = 1.015,895,8 per solar hour.
conditions which may occur with some degree of pe- mu ( :2) Variational constituent. See lambda.
riodicity. The principal meteorological constituents rec- Speed = 2T 4s + 4h = 27.968,208,4 per solar hour.
ognized in the tides are Sa, Ssa, and S l. See storm surge. multiple tide staff A succession of tide staffs on a
M etonic cycle A period of almost 19 years or 235 sloping shore so placed that the vertical graduations on the
lunations. Devised by Meton, an Athenian astronomer who several staffs will form a continuous scale referred to the
lived in the fifth century B.C., for the purpose of obtaining same datum.
a period in which new and full Moon would recur on the
same day of the year. Taking the Julian year of 365.25 days N
and the synodical month as 29.530,588 days, we have the N Rate of change (as of January 1, 1900) in mean
l9-year period of 6,939.75 days as compared with the 235 longitude of the Moon's node.
lunations of 6,939.69 days, a difference of only 0.06 day. N = 0.002,206,41 per solar hour.
M f Lunar fortnightly constituent. This constituent N 2 Larger lunar elliptic semi diurnal constituent. See
expresses the effect of departure from a sinusoidal L2
declinational motion. Speed = 2T 3s + 2h + p = 28.439,729,5 per solar hour.
Speed = 2s = 1.098,033,1 per solar hour. 2N 2 Lunar elliptic semi diurnal second-order con-
midextreme tide An elevation midway between ex- stituent.
treme high water and extreme low water occurring in any Speed = 2T 4s + 2h + 2p = 27.895,354,8 per solar hour.
locality. National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929 [NGVD
mixed (current) Type of tidal current characterized 1929] A fixed reference adopted as a standard geodetic
by a conspicuous diurnal inequality in the greater and lesser datum for elevations determined by leveling. The datum
flood strengths and/or greater and lesser ebb strengths. See was derived for surveys from a general adjustment of the
flood current and ebb current. first-order leveling nets of both the United States and
mixed (tide) Type of tide characterized by a con- Canada. In the adjustment, mean sea level was held fixed as
spicuous diurnal inequality in the higher high and lower observed at 21 tide stations in the United States and 5 in
high waters and/or higher low and lower low waters. See Canada. The year indicates the time of the general
type of tide. adjustment. A synonym for Sea-level Datum of 1929. The
M m Lunar monthly constituent. This constituent geodetic datum is fixed and does not take into account the
expresses the effect of irregularities in the Moon's rate of changing stands of sea level. Because there are many
change of distance and speed in orbit. variables affecting sea level, and because the geodetic
Speed = s p = 0.544,374,7 per solar hour. datum represents a best fit over a broad area, the
modified epochSee kappa prime (6t) and epoch (1). relationship between the geodetic datum and local mean sea
modified-range ratio method A tidal datum level is not consistent from one location to another in either
computation method. Generally used for the East Coast, time or space. For this reason, the National Geodetic
Gulf Coast, and Caribbean Island stations. Values needed Vertical Datum should not be confused with mean sea level.
are mean tide level (MTL), mean diurnal tide level (DTL), See North American Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD
mean range of tide (MN), and great diurnal range (GT) as
1988).
determined by comparison with an appropriate control.
From those, the following are computed: National Spatial Reference System (NSRS) A
MLW = MTL - (0.5*MN) consistent national coordinate system that defines latitude,
MHW = MLW + M N longitude, height, scale, gravity, and orientation throughout
MLLW = DTL - (0.5*GT) the nation, and how these values change with time. The
MHHW = MLLW + GT NSRS is developed and maintained by the National
16
G eod etic S urv ey using ad vanced geodetic, occurring at the time of neap tides and is most conveniently
photogrammetric, and remote sensing techniques. computed from the harmonic constants. It is smaller than the
National Tidal Datum Convention of 1980 Effec- mean range where the type of tide is either semidiurnal or
tive November 28, 1980, the Convention: (1) establishes mixed and is of no practical significance where the type of
one uniform, continuous tidal datum system for all marine tide is predominantly diurnal. T he average height of the
waters of the United States, its territories, Commonwealth high waters of the neap tide is called neap high water or
of Puerto Rico, and Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, high water neaps (MHW N) and the average height of the
for the first time in history; (2) provides a tidal datum corresponding low waters is called neap low water or low
system independent of computations based on type of tide; water neaps (MLW N).
(3) lowers chart datum from mean low water to mean lower Next Generation W ater Level M easurement System
low water along the Atlantic coast of the United States; (4) (NGWLM S)A fully integrated system encompassing new
updates the National Tidal Datum Epoch from 1941 technology sensors and recording equipment, multiple data
through 1959, to 1960 through 1978; (5) changes the name transmission options, and an integrated data processing,
Gulf Coast Low W ater Datum to mean lower low water; (6) analysis, and dissemination subsystem.
introduces the tidal datum of mean higher high water in nodal line A line in an oscillating body of water
areas of predominantly diurnal tides; and (7) lowers mean along which there is a minimum or zero rise and fall of the
high water in areas of predominantly diurnal tides. See tide.
chart datum. nodal point The zero tide point in an amphidromic
National Tidal Datum Epoch The specific l9-year region.
period adopted by the National Ocean Service as the node See lunar nodes.
official time segment over which tide observations are node cycle Period of approximately 18.61 Julian
taken and reduced to obtain mean values (e.g., mean lower years required for the regression of the Moon's nodes to
low water, etc.) for tidal datums. It is necessary for complete a circuit of 360 of longitude. It is accompanied
standardization because of periodic and apparent secular by a corresponding cycle of changing inclination of the
trends in sea level. The present National Tidal Datum Moon's orbit relative to the plane of the Earth's Equator,
Epoch is 1960 through 1978. It is reviewed annually for with resulting inequalities in the rise and fall of the tide and
possible revision and must be actively considered for speed of the tidal current.
revision every 25 years. node factor (f) A factor depending upon the lon-
National W ater Level Observation Network gitude of the Moon's node which, when applied to the mean
(NW LON) The network of tide and water level stations coefficient of a tidal constituent, will adapt the same to a
operated by the National Ocean Service along the marine particular year for which predictions are to be made.
and Great Lakes coasts and islands of the United States. nodical month Average period of the revolution of
The NW LON is composed of the primary and sec- the Moon around the Earth with respect to the Moon's
ondary control tide stations of the National Ocean Service. ascending node. It is approximately 27.212,220 days in
This Network provides the basic tidal datums for coastal length.
and marine boundaries and for chart datum of the United nonharmonic constants Tidal constants such as
States. Tide observations at a secondary control tide station lunitidal intervals, ranges, and inequalities which may be
or tertiary tide station are reduced to equivalent l9-year derived directly from high and low water observations
tidal datums through comparison of simultaneous without regard to the harmonic constituents of the tide. Also
observations with a primary control tide station. In addition applicable to tidal currents.
to hydrography, nautical charting, and delineation of nontidal current See current.
coastal and marine boundaries, the Network is used for normal tide A nontechnical term synonymous with
coastal processes and tectonic studies, tsunami and storm tide; i.e., the rise and fall of the ocean due to the
surge warnings, and climate monitoring. gravitational interactions of the Sun, Moon, and Earth
The National W ater Level Observation Network also alone. Use of this term is discouraged.
includes stations operated throughout the Great Lakes North American Vertical Datum of 1988 [NAVD
Basin. The network supports regulation, navigation and 1988] A fixed reference for elevations determined by
charting, river and harbor improvement, power generation, geodetic leveling. The datum was derived from a general
various scientific activities, and the adjustment for vertical adjustment of the first-order terrestrial leveling nets of the
movement of the Earth's crust in the Great Lakes Basin. United States, Canada, and Mexico. In the adjustment, only
neap range See neap tides. the height of the primary tidal bench mark, referenced to the
neap tides or tidal currents Tides of decreased International Great Lakes Datum of 1985 (IGLD 1985)
range or tidal currents of decreased speed occurring local mean sea level height value, at Father Point,
semimonthly as the result of the Moon being in quadrature. Rimouski, Quebec, Canada was held fixed, thus providing
The neap range (Np) of the tide is the average range minimum constraint. NAVD 1988 and IGLD 1985 are not
17
identical. However, NAVD 1988 bench mark values are nontechnical word has, for the most part, been determined
given in Helmert orthometric height units while IGLD 1985 to be synonymous with mean. Thus, ordinary high (low)
values are in dynamic heights. See International Great water is the equivalent of mean high (low) water. The use of
Lakes Datum of 1985, National Geodetic Vertical Datum ordinary in tidal terms is discouraged.
orifice See stilling well and protective well.
of 1929, and geopotential difference.
overfalls Breaking waves caused by the meeting of
North Atlantic Current A North Atlantic Ocean
currents or by waves moving against the current. See rip.
current setting northeastward from southeast of the Grand
overtide A harmonic tidal (or tidal current) con-
Banks at about latitude 40 north, longitude 50 west, to the
stituent with a speed that is an exact multiple of the speed of
British Isles. A segment of the Gulf Stream System, the
one of the fundamental constituents derived from the
North Atlantic Current continues the flow of the Gulf
development of the tide-producing force. The presence of
Stream to the Norwegian and Canary Currents.
overtides is usually attributed to shallow water conditions.
North Cape Current An Arctic Ocean current set-
The overtides usually considered in tidal work are the
ting eastward off the north coast of Scandinavia in the
harmonics of the principal lunar and solar semidiurnal
Barrents Sea.
constituents M 2 and S 2, and are designated by the symbols
North Equatorial Current A current setting west-
M 4, M 6, M 8, S 4, S 6, etc. The magnitudes of these harmonics
ward in the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans and in
relative to those of the fundamental constituents are usually
the Indian Ocean from about October to July. It occurs
greater in the tidal current than in the tide.
immediately north of the Equatorial Counter Current.
Oyashio A current setting southwestward along the
North Pacific Current A North Pacific Ocean cur-
Siberian, Kamchatka, and Kuril Islands coasts in the Bering
rent setting eastward from about 160 east to somewhat
Sea and North Pacific Ocean.
beyond about 150 west. It continues the flow of the
Kuroshio Extension, sending branches to the south.
P
Norwegian CurrentA North Atlantic Ocean current
p Rate of change (as of January 1, 1900) in mean
setting northeastward off the coast of Norway.
longitude of lunar perigee.
nu ( <2) Larger lunar evectional constituent. See
p = 0.004,641,83 per solar hour.
lambda.
p 1 Rate of change (as of January 1, 1900) in mean
Speed = 2T 3s + 4h p = 28.512,583,1 per solar hour.
longitude of solar perigee.
O p 1 = 0.000,001,96 per solar hour.
O 1 Lunar diurnal constituent. See K 1. P 1 Solar diurnal constituent. See K 1.
Speed = T 2s + h = 13.943,035,6 per solar hour. Speed = T h = 14.958,931,4 per solar hour.
obliquity factor A factor in an expression for a parallax In tidal work, the term refers to horizontal
constituent tide (or tidal current) involving the angle of the parallax, which is the angle formed at the center of a
inclination of the Moon's orbit to the plane of the Earth's celestial body between a line to the center of the Earth and
Equator. a line tangent to the Earth's surface. Since the sine of a small
obliquity of the ecliptic The angle which the ecliptic angle is approximately equal to the angle itself in radians,
makes with the plane of the Earth's Equator. Its value is it is usually taken in tidal work simply as the ratio of the
approximately 23.45. mean radius of the Earth to the distance of the tide-produc-
obliquity of the M oon's orbit The angle which the ing body. Since the parallax is a function of the distance of
Moon's orbit makes with the plane of the Earth's Equator. a celestial body, the term is applied to tidal inequalities
Its value varies from 18.3 to 28.6, depending upon the arising from the changing distance of the tide-producing
longitude of the Moon's ascending node; the smaller value body.
corresponding to a longitude of 180 and the larger one, to parallax inequalityThe variation in the range of tide
a longitude of 0.
or in the speed of a tidal current due to changes in the
oceanography Oceanography is the science of all
aspects of the oceans, in spite of its etymology. The term, distance of the Moon from the Earth. The range of tide and
oceanography, implies the interrelationships of the various speed of the current tend alternately to increase and
marine sciences of which it is composed. This connotation decrease as the Moon approaches its perigee and apogee,
has arisen through the historical development of marine respectively, the complete cycle being the anomalistic
research in which it has been found that a true month. There is a similar but relatively unimportant
understanding of the oceans is best achieved through inequality due to the Sun, the cycle being the anomalistic
investigations based on the realization that water, its year. The parallax has little direct effect upon the lunitidal
organic and inorganic contents, motions, and boundaries intervals but tends to modify the phase effect. W hen the
are mutually related and interdependent.
Moon is in perigee, the priming and lagging of the tide due
OO 1 Lunar diurnal, second-order, constituent.
Speed = T + 2s + h = 16.139,101,7 per solar hour. to the phase is diminished and when in apogee the priming
ordinary W ith respect to tides, the use of this and lagging is increased.
18
parallax reduction A processing of observed high maximum value, the entire period of the function being
and low waters to obtain quantities depending upon 360. The maximum and minimum of a harmonic
changes in the distance of the Moon, such as perigean and constituent have phase values of 0 and 180, respectively.
apogean ranges. phase inequality Variations in the tides or tidal
parallel plate intake Intake of a stilling or protective currents due to changes in the phase of the Moon. At the
well with two parallel plates attached below. The plates are times of new and full Moon the tide-producing forces of the
typically three times the diameter of the well and are spaced Moon and Sun act in conjunction, causing the range of tide
three inches apart. The plates are used to minimize and speed of the tidal current to be greater than the average,
current-induced draw-down (Bernoulli effect) error in water the tides at these times being known as spring tides. At the
level measurements. times of the quadratures of the M oon these forces are
pelorus An instrument formerly used on a vessel in opposed to each other, causing neap tides with diminished
connection with a current line and current pole to obtain the range and current speed.
set of the current. In its simplest form, it was a disk about phase lag Same as epoch (1).
8 inches in diameter and graduated clockwise for every 5 phase reduction A processing of observed high and
or 10 . It was mounted rigidly on the vessel, usually with low waters to obtain quantities depending upon the phase of
the 0 mark forward and the diameter through this mark the Moon, such as the spring and neap ranges of tide. At a
parallel with the keel. Bearings were then related to the former time this process was known as second reduction.
vessel's compass and converted to true. Also applicable to tidal currents.
perigean tides or tidal currents Tides of increased pororoca Brazilian for tidal bore.
range or tidal currents of increased speed occurring PORTSPhysical Oceanographic Real Time System.
monthly as the result of the Moon being in perigee. The A national system of current, water level, and other
perigean range (Pn) of tide is the average range occurring oceanographical and meteorological sensors telemetering
at the time of perigean tides and is most conveniently data in real-time to central locations for storage, processing,
computed from the harmonic constants. It is larger than the and dissemination. Available to pilots, mariners, the U.S.
mean range where the type of tide is either semidiurnal or Coast Guard, and other marine interests in voice or digital
mixed, and is of no practical significance where the type of form. First introduced in Tampa Bay.
tide is predominantly diurnal. potential, tide-producingTendency for particles on
perigee The point in the orbit of the Moon or a the Earth to change their positions as a result of the
man-made satellite nearest to the Earth. The point in the gravitational interactions between the Sun, Moon, and
orbit of a satellite nearest to its companion body. Earth. Although gravitational attraction varies inversely as
perihelion The point in the orbit of the Earth (or the square of the distance of the tide producing body, the
other planet, etc.) nearest to the Sun. resulting potential varies inversely as the cube of the
period Interval required for the completion of a distance.
recurring event, such as the revolution of a celestial body or predicting machine See tide predicting machine.
the time between two consecutive like phases of the tide or pressure gauge A water level gauge that is operated
tidal current. A period may be expressed in angular by the change in pressure at the bottom of a body of water
measure as 360. The word also is used to express any due to the rise and fall of the water level. See gas purged
specified duration of time. pressure gauge.
permanent current A current that runs continuously pressure gradient force, horizontal The horizontal
and is independent of tides and other temporary causes. component of the product of the specific volume and the
Permanent currents include the general surface circulation rate of decrease in pressure with distance.
of the oceans. pressure sensor A pressure transducer sensing de-
Peru Current A South Pacific Ocean current setting vice for water level measurement. A relative transducer is
northward along the west coast of South America. It has vented to the atmosphere and pressure readings are made
sometimes been called the Humboldt Current because an relative to atmospheric pressure. An absolute transducer
early record of its temperature was taken by the German measures the pressure at its location. The readings are then
scientist Alexander von Humboldt in 1802. It has also been corrected for barometric pressure taken at the surface.
called the Peruvian or Chilean Current. The name Corriente primary control tide station A tide station at which
de Peru was adopted by a resolution of the Ibero-American continuous observations have been made over a minimum
Oceanographic Conference at its Madrid-Malaga meeting of 19 years. Its purpose is to provide data for computing
in April 1935. accepted values of the harmonic and nonharmonic constants
phase (1) Any recurring aspect of a periodic phe- essential to tide predictions and to the determination of tidal
nomenon, such as new Moon, high water, flood strength, datums for charting and for coastal and marine boundaries.
etc. (2) A particular instant of a periodic function expressed The data series from this station serves as a primary control
in angular measure and reckoned from the time of its for the reduction of relatively short series from subordinate
19
tide stations through the method of comparison of radiational tide Periodic variations in sea level
simultaneous observations and for monitoring long-period primarily related to meteorological changes such as the
sea level trends and variations. See tide station, secondary semidaily (solar) cycle in barometric pressure, daily (solar)
control tide station, tertiary tide station, and subordinate land and sea breezes, and seasonal (annual) changes in
tide station (1). temperature. Other changes in sea level due to
primary tidal bench mark See bench mark. meteorological changes that are random in phase are not
prime meridian The meridian of longitude which considered radiational tides.
passes through the original site of the Royal Observatory in range of tide The difference in height between
Greenwich, England and used as the origin of longitude. consecutive high and low waters. The mean range is the
Also known as the Greenwich Meridian. difference in height between mean high water and mean low
priming of tide The periodic acceleration in the time water. The great diurnal range or diurnal range is the
of occurrence of high and low waters due to changes in the difference in height between mean higher high water and
relative positions of the Sun and Moon. mean lower low water. For other ranges see spring, neap,
progressive wave A wave that advances in distance perigean, apogean, and tropic tides; and tropic ranges.
along the sea surface or at some intermediate depth. real-time Pertains to a data collecting system that
Although the wave form itself travels significant distances, monitors an on-going process and disseminates measured
the water particles that make up the wave merely describe values before they are expected to have changed
circular (in relatively deep water) or elliptical (in relatively significantly.
shallow water) orbits. W ith high, steep, wind waves, a rectilinear current Same as reversing current.
small overlap in the orbital motion becomes significant. red tide (water) The term applied to toxic algal
This overlapping gives rise to a small net mass transport. blooms caused by several genera of dinoflagellates
See long shore current and rip current. Progressive waves (Gymnodinium and Gonyaulax) which turn the sea red and
are frequently associated with a deterioration in water
can be internal, traveling along a sharp density
quality. The color occurs as a result of the reaction of a red
discontinuity, such as the thermocline, or in a layer of
pigment, peridinin, to light during photosynthesis. These
gradually changing density (vertically). toxic algal blooms pose a serious threat to marine life and
protective well A vertical pipe with a relatively large are potentially harmful to humans. The term has no
opening (intake) in the bottom. It is used with the air connection with astronomic tides. However, its association
acoustic ranging sensor and electronic processing (filtering) with the word "tide" is from popular observations of its
technique to minimize the nonlinear characteristics of the movements with tidal currents in estuarine waters.
stilling well. Its purpose is also to shield the sensing reduction factor (F) Reciprocal of node factor (f).
element from physical damage and harsh environment. reduction of tides or tidal currents A processing of
observed tide or tidal current data to obtain mean values for
Unlike a stilling well, damping of high frequency waves is
tidal or tidal current constants.
not a critical requirement. See stilling well.
reference station A tide or current station for which
pycnocline A layer in which the density increases independent daily predictions are given in the "Tide Tables"
significantly (relative to the layers above and below) with and "Tidal Current Tables," and from which corresponding
depth. predictions are obtained for subordinate stations by means
of differences and ratios. See subordinate tide station (2)
Q and subordinate current station (2).
Q l Larger lunar elliptic diurnal constituent. See M 1. relative mean sea level change A local change in
Speed = T 3s + h + p = 13.398,660,9 per solar hour. mean sea level relative to a network of bench marks
established in the most stable and permanent material
2Q 1 Lunar elliptic diurnal, second order, constituent.
available (bedrock, if possible) on the land adjacent to the
Speed = T 4s + h + 2p = 12.854,286,2 per solar hour. tide station location. A change in relative mean sea level
quadrature of M oon Position of the Moon when its may be composed of both an absolute mean sea level
longitude differs by 90 from the longitude of the Sun. The change component and a vertical land movement change
corresponding phases are known as first quarter and last component.
quarter. residual current The observed current minus the
astronomical tidal current.
R response analysis For any linear system, an input
R 2Smaller solar elliptic constituent. This constituent, function X i(t) and an output function X 0(t) can be related
with T 2, modulates the amplitude and frequency of S 2 for according to the formula:
the effect of variation in the Earth's orbital speed due to its X 0(t) = oI4X i (t J)W ( J)d J + noise(t)
elliptical orbit. where W ( J) is the impulse response of the system and its
Speed = 2T + h p 1 = 30.041,066,7 per solar hour. Fourier transform:
race A very rapid current through a comparatively Z(f) = oI4W ( J)e -2BifJ = R(f)e iN(f)
narrow channel. is the system's admittance (coherent output/input) at
20
frequency f. In practice, the integrals are replaced by rotary current A tidal current that flows continually
summations; X i, W , and Z are generally complex. The with the direction of flow changing through all points of the
discrete set of W values are termed response weights; X 0(t) compass during the tidal period. Rotary currents are usually
is ordinarily an observed tidal time series and X i(t) the tide found offshore where the direction of flow is not restricted
potential or the tide at some nearby place. A future by any barriers. The tendency for the rotation in direction
prediction can be prepared by applying the weights to an has its origin in the Coriolis force and, unless modified by
appropriate X i(t) series. In general: local conditions, the change is clockwise in the Northern
* Z * = R(f) and Tan(Z) = N(f) Hemisphere and counterclockwise in the Southern. The
measure the relative magnification and phase lead of the speed of the current usually varies throughout the tidal
station at frequency f. cycle, passing through the two maxima in approximately
reversing current A tidal current which flows al- opposite directions and the two minima with the direction
ternately in approximately opposite directions with a slack of the current at approximately 90 from the directions of
water at each reversal of direction. Currents of this type the maxima.
usually occur in rivers and straits where the direction of
flow is more or less restricted to certain channels. W hen the S
movement is towards the shore or up a stream, the current s Rate of change (as of January 1, 1900) in mean
is said to be flooding, and when in the opposite direction, longitude of Moon.
it is said to be ebbing. The combined flood and ebb s = 0.549,016,53 per solar hour.
movement (including the slack water) covers, on an S 1 Solar diurnal constituent.
average, 12.42 hours for a semidiurnal current. If Speed = T = 15.000,000,0 per solar hour.
unaffected by a nontidal flow, the flood and ebb S 2 Principal solar semidiurnal constituent. This
movements will each last about 6 hours, but when constituent represents the rotation of the Earth with respect
combined with such a flow, the durations of flood and ebb to the Sun.
may be quite different. During the flow in each direction Speed = 2T = 30.000,000,0 per solar hour.
the speed of the current will vary from zero at the time of S 4, S 6 Shallow water overtides of the principal solar
slack water to a maximum about midway between the constituent.
slacks. Speed of S 4 = 2S 2 = 4T = 60.000,000,0 per solar hour.
reversing falls A name applied to falls which flow Speed of S 6 = 3S 2 = 6T = 90.000,000,0 per solar hour.
alternately in opposite directions in a narrow channel in the Sa Solar annual constituent. This constituent, with
St. John River above the city of St. John, New Brunswick, Ssa, accounts for the nonuniform changes in the Sun's
Canada, the phenomenon being due to the large range of declination and distance. In actuality, they mostly reflect
tide and a constriction in the river. The direction of flow is yearly meteorological variations influencing sea level.
upstream or downstream according to whether it is high or Speed = h = 0.041,068,64 per solar hour.
low water on the outside, the falls disappearing at the Ssa Solar semiannual constituent. See Sa.
half-tide level. Speed = 2h = 0.082,137,3 per solar hour.
rho ( D1) Larger lunar evectional diurnal constituent. salinity (S) The total amount of solid material in
Speed = T 3s + 3h p = 13.471,514,5 per solar hour. grams contained in 1 kilogram of sea water when all the
rip Agitation of water caused by the meeting of carbonate has been converted to oxide, the bromine and
iodine replaced by chlorine, and all organic matter
currents or by a rapid current setting over an irregular
completely oxidized. The following is approximate.
bottom. Termed tide rip when a tidal current is involved. S( ) = 1.806,55 x Cl ( )
See overfalls. W here Cl( ) is chlorinity in parts per thousand. See
rip current A narrow intense current setting seaward chlorinity.
through the surf zone. It removes the excess water brought Sargasso Sea The west central region of the sub-
to the zone by the small net mass transport of waves. It is tropical gyre of the North Atlantic Ocean. It is bounded by
fed by longshore currents. Rip currents usually occur at the North Atlantic, Canary, North Equatorial, and Antilles
points, groins, jetties, etc., of irregular beaches, and at Currents, and the Gulf Stream. It is characterized by the
regular intervals along straight, uninterrupted beaches.
absence of any well-marked currents and by large quantities
river current The gravity-induced seaward flow of
of drifting Sargassum, or gulfweed.
fresh water originating from the drainage basin of a river.
SarosA period of 223 synodic months corresponding
In the fresh water portion of the river below head of tide,
approximately to 19 eclipse years or 18.03 Julian years, and
the river current is alternately increased and decreased by
is a cycle in which solar and lunar eclipses repeat
the effect of the tidal current. After entering a tidal estuary,
themselves under approximately the same conditions.
river current is the depth-averaged mean flow through any
sea level datum (SLD)An obsolete term. See Na-
cross-section. See head of tide and estuary.
tional Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929 and mean sea level.
river estuary See estuary.
21
second reduction Same as phase reduction. shear A quasi-horizontal layer moving at a different
secondary control tide station A tide station at velocity relative to the layer directly below and/or above.
which continuous observations have been made over a shoreline (coastline)The intersection of the land
minimum period of 1 year but less than 19 years. The series with the water surface. The shoreline shown on charts
is reduced by comparison with simultaneous observations represents the line of contact between the land and a
from a primary control tide station. This station provides selected water elevation. In areas affected by tidal
for a 365-day harmonic analysis including the seasonal fluctuations, this line of contact is the mean high water line.
fluctuation of sea level. See tide station, primary control In confined coastal waters of diminished tidal influence, the
tide station, tertiary tide station, and subordinate tide mean water level line may be used. See coast line.
station (1). sidereal day The time of the rotation of the Earth
secular trendSee apparent secular trend as preferred with respect to the vernal equinox. It equals approximately
term. 0.997,27 of a mean solar day. Because of the precession of
seiche A stationary wave usually caused by strong the equinoxes, the sidereal day thus defined is slightly less
winds and/or changes in barometric pressure. It is found in than the period of rotation with respect to the fixed stars,
lakes, semi-enclosed bodies of water, and in areas of the but the difference is less than a hundredth part of a second.
open ocean. The period of a seiche in an enclosed sidereal month Average period of the revolution of
rectangular body of water is usually represented by the the Moon around the Earth with respect to a fixed star,
formula: equal to 27.321,661 mean solar days.
Period (T) = 2L / %gd sidereal time This is usually defined by astronomers
in which L is the length, d the average depth of the body of as the hour angle of the vernal equinox. The sidereal day is
water, and g the acceleration of gravity. See standing wave. the interval between two successive upper transits of the
seismic sea wave Same as tsunami. vernal equinox. It is to be noted that when applied to the
semidiurnal Having a period or cycle of approxi- month and year the word sidereal has reference to motion
mately one-half of a tidal day. The predominant type of tide with respect to the fixed stars, while the word tropical is
throughout the world is semidiurnal, with two high waters used for motion with respect to the vernal equinox. Because
and two low waters each tidal day. The tidal current is said of the precession of the equinox there is a slight difference.
to be semidiurnal when there are two flood and two ebb sidereal year Average period of the revolution of the
periods each day. A semidiurnal constituent has two Earth around the Sun with respect to a fixed star. Its length
maxima and two minima each constituent day, and its is approximately 365.256,4 mean solar days.
symbol is the subscript 2. See type of tide. sigma-t ( Ft) An expression of density as a function of
sequence of current The order of occurrence of the temperature and salinity (at atmospheric pressure) in a
four tidal current strengths of a day, with special reference convenient numerical form. See density.
as to whether the greater flood immediately precedes or Ft = (Ds,t,p 1)1,000
follows the greater ebb. sigma-zero ( Fo) An expression of density as a func-
sequence of tide The order in which the four tides of tion of salinity (at atmospheric pressure and 0C) in a
a day occur, with special reference as to whether the higher convenient numerical form. See density.
high water immediately precedes or follows the lower low Fo = (Ds,t,o 1)1,000
water. slack; ebb begins (slack before ebb) The slack wa-
set (of current) The direction towards which the ter immediately preceding the ebb current.
current flows. slack; flood begins (slack before flood) The slack
shallow water constituent A short-period harmonic water immediately preceding the flood current.
term introduced into the formula of tidal (or tidal current) slack water (slack) The state of a tidal current when
constituents to account for the change in the form of a tide its speed is near zero, especially the moment when a
wave resulting from shallow water conditions. Shallow reversing current changes direction and its speed is zero.
The term also is applied to the entire period of low speed
water constituents include the overtides and compound
near the time of turning of the current when it is too weak to
tides.
be of any practical importance in navigation. The relation of
shallow water wave A wave is classified as a shal- the time of slack water to the tidal phases varies in different
low water wave whenever the ratio of the depth (the localities. For a perfect standing tidal wave, slack water
vertical distance of the still water level from the bottom) to occurs at the time of high and of low water, while for a
the wave length (the horizontal distance between crests) is perfect progressive tidal wave, slack water occurs midway
less than 0.04. Such waves propagate according to the between high and low water. See slack; ebb begins and
formula: slack; flood begins.
C = %gd small diurnal range (Sl)Difference in height be-
where C is the wave speed, g the acceleration of gravity, tween mean lower high water and mean higher low water.
and d the depth. Tidal waves are shallow water waves.
22
small tropic range (Sc) Difference in height be- specific volume anomaly, or steric anomaly
tween tropic lower high water and tropic higher low water. ( *) The excess in specific volume over the standard
solar day The period of the rotation of the Earth specific volume at 35 , 0C, and the given pressure. See
with respect to the Sun. The mean solar day is the time of thermosteric anomaly and specific volume.
the rotation with respect to the mean Sun. The solar day *= "s,t,p "35,o,p
commencing at midnight is called a civil or calendar day, specific volume, in situ ( " s,t,p) Volume per unit
but if the day is reckoned from noon it is known as an mass. The reciprocal of density (specific gravity). The
astronomical day because of its former use in astronomical specific volume of sea water as a function of salinity,
calculation. temperature, and pressure. See specific volume anomaly and
solar tide (1) The part of the tide that is due to the thermosteric anomaly.
tide-producing force of the Sun. (2) The observed tide in speed (of constituent) The rate of change in the
areas where the solar tide is dominant. This condition phase of a constituent, usually expressed in degrees per
provides for phase repetition at about the same time each hour. The speed is equal to 360 divided by the constituent
solar day. period expressed in hours.
solar time Time measured by the hour angle of the speed (of current) The magnitude of velocity. Rate
Sun. It is called apparent time when referred to the actual at which the current flows. Usually expressed in knots or
Sun and mean time when referred to the mean Sun. It is centimeters per second.
also classified as local, standard, or Greenwich according Spitsbergen Atlantic Current A current setting
to whether it is reckoned from the local, standard, or northwestward off the southwest coast of Spitsbergen in the
Greenwich meridian. Greenland Sea.
solitary wave A wave of translation consisting of a spring high water Same as mean high water springs
single crest rising above the undisturbed water level (MHW S). See spring tides.
without any accompanying trough. The rate of advance of spring low water Same as mean low water springs
a solitary wave depends upon the depth of the water and is (MLW S). See spring tides and mean low water springs.
usually expressed by the formula: spring range (Sg) See spring tides.
C = %g(d + h) spring tides or tidal currents Tides of increased
in which C = rate of advance, g = acceleration of gravity, d range or tidal currents of increased speed occurring
= depth of water, and h = height of wave, the depth and semimonthly as the result of the Moon being new or full.
height being measured from the undisturbed water level. The spring range (Sg) of tide is the average range occurring
solstices The two points in the ecliptic where the Sun at the time of spring tides and is most conveniently
reaches its maximum and minimum declinations; also the computed from the harmonic constants. It is larger than the
times when the Sun reaches these points. The maximum mean range where the type of tide is either semi diurnal or
north declination occurs on or near June 21, marking the mixed, and is of no practical significance where the type of
beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and the tide is predominantly diurnal. The average height of the
beginning of winter in the Southern. The maximum south high waters of the spring tides is called spring high water or
declination occurs on or near December 22, marking the mean high water springs (MHW S) and the average height of
beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and the the corresponding low waters is called spring low water or
beginning of summer in the Southern. mean low water springs (MLW S).
solstitial tides Tides occurring near the times of the stand of tide Sometimes called a platform tide. An
solstices. The tropic range may be expected to be especially interval at high or low water when there is no sensible
large at these times. change in the height of the tide. The water level is stationary
Somali (East Africa Coast) Current An Indian at high and low water for only an instant, but the change in
Ocean current setting southwestward along the coast of level near these times is so slow that it is not usually
Somalia. The current reverses and sets to the northeast perceptible. In general, the duration of the apparent stand
during the Southwest Monsoon. will depend upon the range of tide, being longer for a small
South Equatorial Current A current setting west- range than for a large range, but where there is a tendency
ward along and south of the Equator in the Atlantic and for a double tide the stand may last for several hours even
Pacific Oceans, and south of the Equator in the Indian with a large range of tide.
Ocean. It occurs immediately south of the Equatorial standard method A tidal datum computation
Counter Current. method. Generally used for the W est Coast and Pacific
Southw est M onsoon Current Same as Monsoon Island stations. Values needed are mean tide level (MTL),
Current. mean range of tide (MN), great diurnal range (GT), and
species of constituent A classification depending mean diurnal high and low water inequalities (DHQ and
upon the period of a constituent. The principal species are DLQ) as determined by comparison with an appropriate
semidiurnal, diurnal, and long-period. control. From those, the following are computed:
23
MLW = MTL - (0.5*MN) tabulated hourly heights of the tide or speeds of the tidal
MHW = MLW + M N current for the purpose of distributing and grouping them
MLLW = MLW - DLQ into constituent hours preliminary to summing for harmonic
MHHW = MHW + DHQ analysis. See Coast and Geodetic Survey Special
standard time A kind of time based upon the transit Publication No. 98, Manual of Harmonic Analysis and
of the Sun over a certain specified meridian, called the time Prediction of Tides. This analysis is now performed on
meridian, and adopted for use over a considerable area. electronic digital computers.
W ith a few exceptions, standard time is based upon some steric anomaly Same as specific volume anomaly.
meridian which differs by a multiple of 15 from the stilling well A vertical pipe with a relatively small
meridian of Greenwich. The United States first adopted opening (intake) in the bottom. It is used in a gauge
standard time in 1883 on the initiative of the American installation to dampen short period surface waves while
Railway Association, and at noon on November 18 of that freely admitting the tide, other long period waves, and sea
year the telegraphic time signals from the Naval level variations; which can then be measured by a water
Observatory at W ashington were changed to this system. level gauge sensor inside. See float well and protective well.
standing (stationary) wave A wave that oscillates storm surge The local change in the elevation of the
without progressing. One-half of such a wave may be ocean along a shore due to a storm. The storm surge is
illustrated by the oscillation of the water in a pan that has measured by subtracting the astronomic tidal elevation from
been tilted. Near the axis, which is called the node or nodal the total elevation. It typically has a duration of a few hours.
line, there is no vertical rise and fall of the water. The ends Since wind generated waves ride on top of the storm surge
of the wave are called loops and at these places the vertical (and are not included in the definition), the total
rise and fall is at a maximum. The current is maximum near instantaneous elevation may greatly exceed the predicted
the node and minimum at the loops. The period of a storm surge plus astronomic tide. It is potentially
stationary wave depends upon the length and depth of the catastrophic, especially on low lying coasts with gently
body of water and, for a simple rectangular basin, may be sloping offshore topography. See storm tide.
expressed by the formula: storm tide As used by the National W eather Service,
T = 2L / %gd NOAA, the sum of the storm surge and astronomic tide. See
in which T is the period of wave, L the length of the basin, storm surge.
d the depth of water, and g the acceleration of gravity. A stray line Ungraduated portion of line connected
stationary wave may be resolved into two progressive with the current pole formerly used in taking current
waves of equal amplitude and equal speeds moving in observations. The stray line was usually about 100 feet long
opposite directions. and permitted the pole to acquire the velocity of the current
station datum See datum of tabulation. at some distance from the disturbed waters in the immediate
stationary wave theory An assumption that the ba- vicinity of the observing vessel, before the current velocity
sic tidal movement in the open ocean consists of a system was read from the graduated portion of the current line.
of stationary wave oscillations, any progressive wave strength of current Phase of tidal current in which
movement being of secondary importance except as the tide the speed is a maximum; also the speed at this time.
advances into tributary waters. The continental masses Beginning with slack before flood in the period of a
divide the sea into irregular basins, which, although not reversing tidal current (or minimum before flood in a rotary
completely enclosed, are capable of sustaining oscillations current), the speed gradually increases to flood strength and
which are more or less independent. The tide-producing then diminishes to slack before ebb (or minimum before ebb
force consists principally of two parts, a semidiurnal force in a rotary current), after which the current turns in
with a period of approximately half a day and a diurnal direction, the speed increases to ebb strength and then
force with a period of approximately a whole day. Insofar diminishes to slack before flood, completing the cycle. If it
as the free period of oscillation of any part of the ocean, as is assumed that the speed throughout the cycle varies as the
determined by its dimensions and depth, is in accord with ordinates of a cosine curve, it can be shown that the average
the semidiurnal or diurnal tide-producing forces, there will speed for an entire flood or ebb period is equal to 2/B or
be built up corresponding oscillations of considerable 0.636,6 of the speed of the corresponding strength of
amplitude which will be manifested in the rise and fall of current.
the tide. The diurnal oscillations, superimposed upon the strength of ebb Same as ebb strength.
semidiurnal oscillations, cause the inequalities in the strength of flood Same as flood strength.
heights of the two high and the two low waters of each day. submerged lands Lands covered by water at any
Although the tidal movement as a whole is somewhat stage of the tide. See tidelands.
complicated by the overlapping of oscillating areas, the subordinate current station (1) A current station
theory is consistent with observational data. from which a relatively short series of observations is
stencils Perforated sheets formerly used with the reduced by comparison with simultaneous observations
24
from a control current station. See current station, control tidal bench mark See bench mark.
current station, and reference station. (2) A station listed in tidal bench mark description A published, concise
the Tidal Current Tables for which predictions are to be description of the location, stamped number or designation,
obtained by means of differences and ratios applied to the date established, and elevation (referred to a tidal datum) of
full predictions at a reference station. See reference station. a specific bench mark.
subordinate tide station (1) A tide station from tidal bench mark state index map A state map
which a relatively short series of observations is reduced by which indicates the locations for which tidal datums and
comparison with simultaneous observations from a tide tidal bench mark descriptions are available.
station with a relatively long series of observations. See tide tidal bore A tidal wave that propagates up a rela-
station, primary control tide station, secondary control tide tively shallow and sloping estuary or river with a steep wave
station, and tertiary tide station. (2) A station listed in the front. The leading edge presents an abrupt rise in level,
Tide Tables from which predictions are to be obtained by frequently with continuous breaking and often immediately
means of differences and ratios applied to the full followed by several large undulations. An uncommon
predictions at a reference station. See reference station. phenomenon, the tidal bore is usually associated with very
summer time British name for daylight saving time. large ranges in tide as well as wedge shaped and rapidly
synodical month The average period of the revolu- shoaling entrances. Also called eagre, eager (for Tsientan,
tion of the Moon around the Earth with respect to the Sun, China bore), mascaret (French), pororoca (Brazilian), and
or the average interval between corresponding phases of the bore.
Moon. The synodical month is approximately 29.530,588 tidal characteristics Principally, those features re-
days in length. lating to the time, range, and type of tide.
syzygy W ith respect to tides, whenever the Moon is tidal constantsTidal relations that remain practically
lined up with the Earth and Sun in a straight Sun-Moon- constant for any particular locality. Tidal constants are
classified as harmonic and nonharmonic. The harmonic
Earth or Sun-Earth-Moon configuration. At these times the
constants consist of the amplitudes and epochs of the
range of tide is greater than average. See spring tides or
harmonic constituents, and the nonharmonic constants
tidal currents. include the ranges and intervals derived directly from the
high and low water observations.
T tidal constituent See constituent.
T Rate of change of hour angle of mean Sun at place tidal current A horizontal movement of the water
of observation. caused by gravitational interactions between the Sun, Moon,
T = 15 per mean solar hour. and Earth. The horizontal component of the particulate
T 2 Larger solar elliptic constituent. See R 2. motion of a tidal wave. Part of the same general movement
Speed = 2T h + p 1 = 29.958,933,3 per solar hour. of the sea that is manifested in the vertical rise and fall
tape gauge See electric tape gauge. called tide. The United States equivalent of the British tidal
telemetryThe capability of transmitting or retrieving stream. See tidal wave, tide, and current.
data over long distance communication links, such as Tidal Current Chart Diagrams A series of monthly
satellite, VHF radio, or telephone. diagrams to be used with the Tidal Current Charts. Each
terdiurnalHaving three periods in a constituent day. diagram contains lines that indicate the specific tidal current
The symbol of a terdiurnal constituent is the subscript 3. chart to use for a given date and time, and the speed factor
tertiary tide station A tide station at which con- to apply to that chart.
tinuous observations have been made over a minimum Tidal Current Charts Charts on which tidal current
period of 30 days but less than 1 year. The series is reduced data are depicted. Tidal Current Charts for a number of
by comparison with simultaneous observations from a important waterways are published by the National Ocean
secondary control tide station. This station provides for a Service. Each consists of a set of charts giving the speed
29-day harmonic analysis. See tide station, primary control and direction of the current for each hour or equal interval
tide station, secondary control tide station, and subordinate of the tidal cycle, thus presenting a comprehensive view of
tide station (1). the tidal current movement.
thermocline A layer in which the temperature de- tidal current constants See current constants.
creases significantly (relative to the layers above and tidal current station See current station.
below) with depth. The principal ones are designated Tidal Current Tables Tables which give daily pre-
diurnal, seasonal, and main thermocline. dictions of the times and velocities of the tidal currents.
thermosteric anomaly( *T, )', or )s,t) The specific These predictions are usually supplemented by current
volume anomaly (steric anomaly) that would be attained if differences and constants through which predictions can be
the water were changed isothermally to a standard pressure obtained for numerous other locations.
of one atmosphere. The specific volume anomaly with tidal datum See datum.
pressure terms omitted. See isanostere. tidal day Same as lunar day.
25
tidal difference Difference in time or height between Level M easurement System, gas purged pressure gauge,
a high or low water at a subordinate station and a reference electric tape gauge, pressure gauge, and tide staff.
station for which predictions are given in the Tide Tables. tide predicting machine A mechanical analog
The difference, when applied according to sign to the machine especially designed to handle the great quantity of
prediction at the reference station, gives the corresponding constituent summations required in the harmonic method.
time or height for the subordinate station. W illiam Ferrel's Maxima and Minima Tide Predictor
tidal epoch See National Tidal Datum Epoch and (described in Manual of Tides, U.S. Coast and Geodetic
epoch. Survey, Appendix 10, Report for 1883) was the first such
tidal estuary See estuary. machine used in the United States. Summing only 19
tidal stream British equivalent of United States tidal constituents, but giving direct readings of the predicted
current. times and heights of the high and low waters, the Ferrel
tidal wave A shallow water wave caused by the machine was used for the predictions of 1885 through 1914.
gravitational interactions between the Sun, Moon, and A second machine, developed by Rollin A. Harris and E. G.
Earth. Essentially, high water is the crest of a tidal wave Fischer and summing 37 constituents, was used for the
and low water, the trough. Tidal current is the horizontal predictions of 1912 through 1965 (described in Manual of
component of the particulate motion, while tide is Harmonic Analysis and Prediction of Tides by Paul
manifested by the vertical component. The observed tide Schureman, U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey Special
and tidal current can be considered the result of the Publication No. 98, 1958). Predictions are now prepared
combination of several tidal waves, each of which may vary using an electronic digital computer.
from nearly pure progressive to nearly pure standing and tide-producing force That part of the gravitational
with differing periods, heights, phase relationships, and attraction of the Moon and Sun which is effective in
direction. producing the tides on the Earth. The force varies
tidal zoning The practice of dividing a hydrographic approximately as the mass of the attracting body and
survey area into discrete zones or sections, each one inversely as the cube of its distance. The tide-producing
possessing similar tidal characteristics. One set of tide force exerted by the Sun is a little less than one-half as great
reducers is assigned to each zone. Tide reducers are used to as that of the M oon. A mathematical development of the
adjust the soundings in that zone to chart datum (MLLW ). vertical and horizontal components of the tide-producing
Tidal zoning is necessary in order to correct for differing forces of the Moon and Sun will be found in Coast and
water level heights occurring throughout the survey area at Geodetic Survey Special Publication No. 98.
any given time. Each zone of the survey area is tide reducers Height corrections for reducing
geographically delineated such that the differences in time soundings to chart datum (MLLW ). A tide reducer
and range do not exceed certain limits, generally 0.2 hours represents the height of the water level at a given place and
and 0.2 feet respectively; however, these limits are subject time relative to chart datum. Tide reducers are obtained
to change depending upon type of survey, location, and from one or more tide stations within or nearby the survey
tidal characteristics. The tide reducers are derived from the area. Often, due to differing tidal characteristics over the
water levels recorded at an appropriate tide station, usually survey area, the tide reducers obtained directly from a tide
nearby. T ide reducers are used to correct the soundings station must be corrected to adjust for time and range of tide
throughout the hydrographic survey area to a common, differences in the various zones of the hydrographic survey
uniform, uninterrupted chart datum. See tide reducers. area. See tidal zoning.
tide The periodic rise and fall of a body of water tide rip See rip.
resulting from gravitational interactions between Sun, tide staff A water level gauge consisting of a vertical
Moon, and Earth. The vertical component of the particulate graduated staff from which the height of the water level can
motion of a tidal wave. Although the accompanying be read directly. It is called a fixed staff when secured in
place so that it cannot be easily removed. A portable staff is
horizontal movement of the water is part of the same
one that is designed for removal from the water when not in
phenomenon, it is preferable to designate this motion as use. For such a staff a fixed support is provided. The
tidal current. See tidal wave. support has a metal stop secured to it so that the staff will
tide curve A graphic representation of the rise and always have the same elevation when installed for use. See
fall of the tide in which time is usually represented by the electric tape gauge.
abscissa and height by the ordinate. For a semidiurnal tide tide (water level) station The geographic location at
with little diurnal inequality, the graphic representation which tidal observations are conducted. Also, the facilities
approximates a cosine curve. See marigram. used to make tidal observations. These may include a tide
tide datum See datum. house, tide (water level) gauge, tide staff, and tidal bench
marks. See primary control tide station, secondary control
tide (water level) gauge An instrument for
tide station, tertiary tide station, and subordinate tide station
measuring the rise and fall of the tide (water level). See (1).
ADR gauge, automatic tide gauge, Next Generation W ater
26
Tide Tables Tables which give daily predictions of These terms are applicable only when the type of tide is
the times and heights of high and low waters. These semidiurnal or mixed. See tropic tides.
predictions are usually supplemented by tidal differences tropic intervals Tropic higher high water interval
and constants through which predictions can be obtained (TcHHW I) is the lunitidal interval pertaining to the higher
for numerous other locations. high waters at the time of the tropic tides. Tropic lower low
tide wave See tidal wave. water interval (TcLLW I) is the lunitidal interval pertaining
tidelands The zone between the mean high water and to the lower low waters at the time of the tropic tides.
mean low water lines. It is identical with intertidal zone Tropic intervals are marked a when reference is made to the
(technical definition) when the type of tide is semidiurnal upper transit of the Moon at its north declination or to the
or diurnal. lower transit at the time of south declination, and are
tidewater W ater activated by the tide generating marked b when the reference is to the lower transit at the
forces and/or water affected by the resulting tide, especially north declination or to the upper transit at the south
in coastal and estuarine areas. Also, a general term often declination. See tropic tides.
applied to the land and water of estuarine areas formed by tropic ranges The great tropic range (Gc), or tropic
postglacial drowning of coastal plain rivers. range, is the difference in height between tropic higher high
tideway A channel through which a tidal current water and tropic lower low water. The small tropic range
flows. (Sc) is the difference in height between tropic lower high
time Time is measured by the rotation of the Earth water and tropic higher low water. The mean tropic range
with respect to some point in the celestial sphere and may (M c) is the mean between the great tropic and the small
be designated as sidereal, solar, or lunar, according to tropic range. Tropic ranges are most conveniently computed
whether the measurement is taken in reference to the vernal from the harmonic constants. See tropic tides.
equinox, the Sun, or the Moon. Solar time may be apparent tropic speed The greater flood or greater ebb speed
or mean, according to whether the reference is to the actual at the time of tropic currents.
Sun or the mean Sun. Mean solar time may be local or tropic tides Tides occurring semimonthly when the
standard, according to whether it is based upon the transit effect of the Moon's maximum declination is greatest. At
of the Sun over the local meridian or a selected meridian these times there is a tendency for an increase in the diurnal
adopted as a standard over a considerable area. Greenwich range. The tidal datums pertaining to the tropic tides are
time is standard time based upon the meridian of designated as tropic higher high water (TcHHW ), tropic
Greenwich. In civil time the day commences at midnight, lower high water (TcLHW ), tropic higher low water
while in astronomical time, as used prior to 1925, the (TcHLW ), and tropic lower low water (TcLLW ).
beginning of the day was reckoned from noon of the civil tropical month The average period of the revolution
day of the same date. The name universal time is now of the Moon around the Earth with respect to the vernal
applied to Greenwich mean civil time. equinox. Its length is approximately 27.321,582 days.
time meridian A meridian used as a reference for tropical year The average period of the revolution of
time. the Earth around the Sun with respect to the vernal equinox.
total current The combination of the tidal and non- Its length is approximately 365.242,2 days. The tropical
tidal current. The United States equivalent of the British year determines the cycle of changes in the seasons, and is
flow. See current. the unit to which the calendar year is adjusted through the
tractive force The horizontal component of a tide- occasional introduction of the extra day on leap years.
producing force vector (directed parallel with level surfaces trough The lowest point in a propagating wave. See
at that geographic location). low water and tidal wave.
transit The passage of a celestial body over a true direction Direction relative to true north (0)
specified meridian. The passage is designated as upper which is the direction of the north geographic pole. See
transit or lower transit according to whether it is over that compass direction and magnetic direction.
part of the meridian lying above or below the polar axis. tsunami A shallow water progressive wave, poten-
tropic currents Tidal currents occurring semi- tially catastrophic, caused by an underwater earthquake or
monthly when the effect of the Moon's maximum volcano.
declination is greatest. At these times the tendency of the Tsushima Current A North Pacific Ocean current
Moon to produce a diurnal inequality in the current is at a setting northeastward in the East China Sea (in summer) and
maximum. Sea of Japan. A segment of the Kuroshio System.
tropic inequalities Tropic high water inequality type of tide A classification based on characteristic
(HW Q) is the average difference between the two high forms of a tide curve. Qualitatively, when the two high
waters of the day at the times of tropic tides. T ropic low waters and two low waters of each tidal day are
water inequality (LW Q) is the average difference between approximately equal in height, the tide is said to be
the two low waters of the day at the times of tropic tides. semidiurnal; when there is a relatively large diurnal
27
inequality in the high or low waters or both, it is said to be west or negative when the deflection is to the west of true
mixed; and when there is only one high water and one low north. The variation changes with time. Also called
water in each tidal day, it is said to be diurnal. magnetic declination.
Quantitatively (after Dietrich), where the amplitude ratio of variational inequality An inequality in the Moon's
K 1 + O 1 to M 2 + S 2 is less than 0.25, the tide is classified as motion due mainly to the tangential component of the Sun's
semidiurnal; where the ratio is from 0.25 to 1.5, the tide is attraction.
mixed, mainly semidiurnal; where the ratio is from 1.5 to velocity (of current) Speed and set of the current.
3.0, the tide is mixed, mainly diurnal; and where greater vernal equinox See equinoxes.
than 3.0, diurnal. vulgar establishment Same as establishment of the
port.
U
universal time (UT) Same as Greenwich mean time W
(GMT). See time, kinds. water level gauge See tide gauge.
uplands Land above the mean high water line water level stationSee tide station.
(shoreline) and subject to private ownership, as distin- wave height The vertical distance between crest and
guished from tidelands, the ownership of which is prima trough. See range of tide.
facie in the state but also subject to divestment under state W est Australian Current An Indian Ocean current
statutes. See tidelands. setting northward along the west coast of Australia.
upwelling An upward flow of subsurface water due W est Greenland Current A North Atlantic Ocean
to such causes as surface divergence, offshore wind, and current setting northward along the west coast of
wind drift transport away from shore. Greenland.
W est W ind Drift Same as Antarctic Circumpolar
V Current.
V 0 + u See equilibrium argument. wind drift An ocean current in which only the
vanishing tide In a predominantly mixed tide with a Coriolis and frictional forces are significant. The wind drift
very large diurnal inequality, the lower high water and embodies an Ekman spiral.
higher low water become indistinct (or vanish) at times of
extreme declinations. Z
variation (of compass) Difference between true Z O Symbol recommended by the International Hy-
north as determined by the Earth's axis of rotation and drographic Organization to represent the elevation of mean
magnetic north as determined by the Earth's magnetism. sea level above chart datum.
Variation is designated as east or positive when the
magnetic needle is deflected to the east of true north and as
28

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Tide and Current Glossary

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

National Ocean Service

Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services

National Ocean Survey, by Paul Schureman, revised by Steacy D. Hicks, 1975.

National Ocean Service, by Steacy D. Hicks, 1984.

National Ocean Service, by Steacy D. Hicks, 1989.

National Ocean Service, by Steacy D. Hicks, 1999.

Phone: (301)713-2877 Ext. 176

For further information on Great Lakes water levels, datums, and

Phone: (301)713-2902 Ext. 184

For further information on currents, tide and tidal current predictions,

Phone: (301)713-2815 Ext. 119

A air acoustic ranging sensor A pulsed, acoustic

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