U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 2004-1003
Sidescan Sonar Imagery and
Surficial Geologic Interpretation of the Sea Floor off Branford, Connecticut
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Schematic representation showing two possible mechanisms (modified from Flood (1983) and McLean (1981), respectively) for the formation of sedimentary furrows in north-central Long Island Sound. (A) Secondary helical flow patterns sweep coarse material, such as nucula shells or sand, into linear zones of convergence. These relatively coarse particles are driven by tidal currents and cut furrows into soft, cohesive sediments. (B) Turbulent wakes produced by flow around dredge-spoil disposal mounds or other obstacles on the sea floor may also initiate furrow development. Sand grains eroded from the mounds then abrade the lengthening furrows into the soft seabed. |
