Quantitative Morphological Analysis of Submarine Canyon-channel Systems on the U.S. Atlantic Continental Margin
Title | Quantitative Morphological Analysis of Submarine Canyon-channel Systems on the U.S. Atlantic Continental Margin |
Publication Type | Thesis |
Year | 2011 |
Authors | Kuenzel, NA |
Degree and Program | Master of Science |
Degree | Earth Sciences/Ocean Mapping |
Number of Pages | 473 |
Date Published | 09/2011 |
University | University of New Hampshire |
Location | Durham, NH |
Keywords | Atlantic continental margin, Canyon channels, quantitative morphological analysis |
Mulitbeam data of the Atlantic continental margin was used to quantify morphologic parameters of 15 canyon channels between Cape Hatteras and Georges Bank. Detailed morphologic comparison of channel parameters identified two different morphologies; Type I, U- and V-shaped with well-defined channels walls, and Type II, an incised channel bordered by terraces. Eight canyon channels are Type I whereas 7 are mixed Type I and II. Channel wall relief is the foremost differentiating parameter between Type I channels and either decreases with increased distance down-channel or increases to a maximum between the 3250 and 4000 m isobaths. Entrenchment co-occurs with steeper local seafloor slope and may reflect channel equilibrium status. The magnitude of entrenchment may be affected by riverine discharge and confinement. A north-south variation in the magnitude of channel wall relief indicates differences in margin processes. Longitudinal profiles of the channels also show a north-south relationship that reflects regional slopes. |