Range of tidal flow modeling

The development of tidal flow modeling must be seen within the context of its applications (especially to morphological and water quality problems), and then to its integration with short-period wave modeling, cohesive and noncohesive sediment process modeling, and a wide range of biochemical and ecological process modeling activities. Moreover, these models are themselves dependent on extensive measuring programs carried out both in the field and in the laboratory. The application of tidal models to a number of very large projects has justified the correspondingly rapid development of both integrated modeling capabilities and field measuring capabilities, together with a continuing investment in laboratory studies. Alongside this, the ongoing large-scale dissemination of fourth-generation modeling tools has provided a further impetus to enhance the reliability, flexibility, and availability of generic tidal modeling systems. The range of tidal modeling is introduced here within this context and in relation to the working environments within which tidal models are now most commonly applied.