3D CFD Modelling of Spatial Variation of Phytoplankton in Loch Leven, Scotland
3D CFD Modelling of Spatial Variation of Phytoplankton in Loch Leven, Scotland
Abstract
A 3D CFD program was used to model the spatial variation of phytoplankton concentration
in Loch Leven, Scotland. The CFD program solved the Navier-Stokes equations with a
zero-equation turbulence model. The convection-diffusion equation for phytoplankton
concentration was solved, including terms a fall velocity term and phytoplankton reproduction
as a function of light intensity. A time series of wind was used as input, consisting of an
initial period of low wind speeds followed by two days of higher wind speeds. During the
calmer period, the phytoplankton was settled, resulting in lower concentration close to the
water surface. The wind then induced turbulence, causing upwelling of phytoplankton from
the deeper waters to the surface. The final concentration close to the water surface was
verified with a remote sensing image of chlorophyll concentration, take from the Airborne
Thematic Mapper, a remote sensing scanner mounted on an aeroplane. Good agreement was
found