Effects of a Steady Nonuniform Current on the Characteristics of Surface Gravity Waves.
Abstract
The effects of flood and ebb tidal currents on incoming surface gravity wave trains were investigated in a three-dimensional wave basin. An existing facility was altered to provide a configuration which simulated an estuary with an inlet through which were passed monochromatic waves of known characteristics. Steady, nonuniform currents, both with and against the incoming waves, were created and the characteristics of the wave trains were determined after encountering the currents. The basic objectives of this study were: (a) to investigate the effect of tidal currents on the period or frequency and on the distribution of energy in the frequency spectrum; (b) to quantitatively determine the changes which occur to the wave heights and lengths in the inlet proper; (c) to better understand the breaking phenomena occurring in the ocean region under ebb currents; (d) to evaluate the effect on energy propagation through the inlet; and (e) to determine the applicability of the existing theoretical work in the area.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1974
- Accession Number
- ADA005005
Entities
People
- John B. Herbich
- Lyndell Z. Hales