Three-D numerical simulation of wind-driven current and density current in the Beibu Gulf

The Casulli's difference scheme was introduced into the three-dimensional ocean model in the present paper, and the wind-driven current and thermohaline current were simulated. The results show that, southwesterly monsoon in summer induces a clockwise circulation in the Beibu Gulf, and the density gradient induces a counter-clockwise one; but the density current is more intense than the winddriven one in summer, especially in surface layer. In addition, the northeasterly monsoon in winter induces a counter-clockwise circulation. The simulated results don't support the traditional conclusion that there is a clockwise circulation in the Beibu Gulf in summer and a counter-clockwise one in winter, but support the statement that a counter-clockwise circulation exists in the Beibu Gulf all year round.