Some Oceanographic Measurements In The Gulf Waters Around Qatar Peninsula

Abstract

During the winter of 1979/1980 four cruises were made to the study area. Salinity, temperature and current speed and direction were measured. The areal distribution, as well as the vertical distribution of these parameters and the factors which affect them, are discussed. Fresh water seepage, dissolution of evaporitic deposits and desalination plants, together with evaporation, affect the vertical and horizontal distribution of salinity. Variations in water temperature are mainly due to solar heating. Current system may be mainly wind driven. Tides and bottom configuration may have decisive influence on it.