Salinity, temperature and mixing on the Texas continental shelf.

Abstract

Salinity and temperature data are presented in order to examine variability of Texas shelf hydrography. Data taken during March 1982 show advection of mid-shelf water to the outer shelf. These data also show the interleaving and/or turbulent mixing of shelf and slope waters near the shelf edge. Data from March 1982, May 1982 and November 1982 show that low salinity surface water was present at the shelf edge during most of the year. These data indicate that offshore transport of water by advection is common. Evidence of such advection would eventually be destroyed by shelf edge processes, such as interleaving or turbulent mixing.