Dye diffusion experience in the Texas Bays: low-wave conditions.

The embayments of the Texas coast, specifically the Gulf of Mexico, have a high degree of morphological similarity, being broad, shallow lagoons connecting with the sea through narrow tidal inlets. The bay waters are vertically well mixed. Their currents and circulation are governed by the interaction of diffusion associated with surface waves, the turbulent structure of the waves, and a dispersion parallel to the current. For many years, fluorescent dye has been used successfully to trace water masses in natural water bodies. Data from experiments performed under conditions of low surface activity are compiled to exhibit characteristics of small-scale mixing in the bays. Information discussed is the analytical framework, field measurements, and hydrographic dependencies.