Numerical Techniques for Ocean Forecasting.
Abstract
The general equations that describe the flow of the ocean are well known, but for many cases of interest, analytical solutions are not possible because of irregular boundaries or significant non-linearities in the equations. It is often possible to obtain useful approximate solutions using numerical techniques. However, for reasonably detailed numerical models, very large amounts of computer time are required, and it becomes imperative to seek out the most efficient numerical algorithm. In the case where forecasts are being made on a real time basis, the use of non-optimum schemes may result in unacceptable delays. This report describes a class of techniques for the efficient treatment of bodies of water with irregular boundaries. Realistic models of the ocean state must include adequate treatment of the boundaries, the irregular bottom topography, the shape of the coastline and the complicated geometry of groups of islands. Traditional numerical methods using a rectangular finite difference grid are suitable for exploratory surveys of idealised problems where the aim is to see why a particular system responds as it does, and what effects variations in the parameters of the problem and the forcing terms have on the outcome.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA100362
Entities
People
- Eric Graham
Organizations
- University of Colorado Boulder