Tidal response functions around Australia from harmonic constants

Abstract

Tidal harmonic constants can be used to make estimates of the tidal response functions. This paper discusses the method and the errors involved, and makes use of the method to study the tides around Australia. The diurnal tidal wave is found to pass smoothly around Australia. The behaviour of the semi-diurnal tidal wave is more complex. In particular it is affected by a resonance in the Coral Sea.

The techniques developed in the paper are also used to estimate the accuracy of a simple method of tidal prediction.