| A simple model for the break-up, by turbulent shear, of marine aggregates is proposed. Three factors are considered to control the rupture of aggregates of different sizes. First, turbulence exerts stronger shear forces on bigger aggregates. Second, big aggregates are weaker than small ones because their porosity increases. Third, the rate of rupture of an aggregate is considered to be dependent on the point in the aggregate where the rupture takes place. This third factor allows the determination of the size distribution resulting from aggregate break-up. By considering these factors the model predicts the break-up rates of aggregates of different sizes and the aggregates' size-distribution resulting from this break-up. Therefore, the model represents an... |
