Thermohaline Convection and Ocean Stratification.
Abstract
A thermohaline stability experiment was executed using a laser-interferometer to detect the onset of instability in an overstable situation. The principal results are: (1) It is feasible to use porous boundary surfaces to provide the conditions for experimentally approximating stress-free boundaries at constant temperatures and concentration; (2) The stability boundary is that of a linear theory, not of the energy theory--the 2 latter underpredicts the stability; and (3) The instability was observed to be oscillatory in nature. Results of experimental studies conducted in test tanks are: (1) Under the conditions of the experiments, it is confirmed that molecular diffusion is the mechanism of heat and salt transport through the inner portion of the thermocline; (2) Stabilizing influences in layered thermohaline systems result in thickening of the thermocline and reduction in the heat and salt fluxes; destabilizing influences have the opposite effect; and (3) During long-term experiments with stable thermoclines, the thermoclines were observed always to rise in the test tank.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 19, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADA047188
Entities
People
- Robert D. Haberstroh
Organizations
- Colorado State University