Simulating the Tides and Currents of Titan's Kraken Mare

Numerical simulation of tides and oceanic angular momentum of Titan’s hydrocarbon seas

Authors:

Tokano et al

Abstract:

Tides and tidal currents in Titan’s hydrocarbon seas are numerically simulated by a 3-dimensional ocean circulation model using a bathymetry map constrained by Cassini. These predictions are used to calculate the tidally induced variations of the oceanic angular momentum of the seas. The tides behave as a quasi-standing wave with anti-nodes at the northern and southern shores. The tidal currents in Kraken Mare are mainly oriented along the major axis of the sea and are dominated by fast hydraulic currents through a narrow strait. The axial oceanic angular momentum primarily changes due to redistribution of liquids in Kraken Mare and maximizes when there is ebb at the northern shore and flood at the southern shore. On the other hand, variations of the equatorial oceanic angular momentum are contributed by both tides and tidal currents. The oceanic torque between sea and sea bottom is minor compared to its atmospheric counterpart, i.e. the mountain torque between atmosphere and mountains.