Elliptic Equation Solvers for NORDA Ocean Models and a Study of Equatorial Ocean Dynamics.
Abstract
Numerical experiments were performed in order to examine the generating mechanisms for equatorial Rossby solitons. It was shown that wind events representing a relaxation of the equatorial trades can generate these solitary waves subsequent to the reflection of the Kelvin wave from the eastern boundary. If the duration of the event is greater than one month, it is possible for multiple solitons to form. This is particularly true for large scale events like El Nino. The numerical calculations support the hypothesis of Boyd (1980) that solitons would most likely be generated during El Nino events. These results also suggest that even wind events on a smaller scale, both temporally and spatially, can generate Rossby solitons and that these waves may have a significant influence on the variability of the equatorial thermocline. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 02, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA117374
Entities
People
- Alan J. Wallcraft