Abstract

Tides influence the allocation of river discharge to distributary channels interconnected by tidal junctions. Geometrical properties of distributary channels and nearshore coastal morphology might also play a significant role in tidal propagation, and hence control river discharge division and tidal energy transport at tidal junctions. Model simulations reveal how under different river discharge regimes, the discharge division is controlled by the tidal behavior at the junctions. Furthermore, analysis of tidal energy at the junctions indicates that the side distributaries drain or add tidal energy to the main river channel depending on the upstream discharge condition.