Assessment of Surface Wave Effects on Upper Ocean Parameters
Abstract
Effects of surface waves on upper ocean physical oceanographic parameters of interest to the Ocean Measurements program (OMP) are investigated. Three surface wave effects are potentially important to the OMP. These are: generation of inertial currents and associated vertical shear, generation of high frequency internal waves within the seasonal thermocline, and increased mixing and decreased vertical gradients near the surface due to wave breaking and wave maintenance of turbulence. Theory relating to each of these effects is provided and mathematical calculations are made which indicate the potential importance of these effects for the OMP. These effects increase with wind speed and sea state and are thus potentially important in mid-to-high latitude regions. These regions have relatively high wind speeds and wave heights due to prevailing westerly winds and the presence of primary extratropical storm tracks. Surface wave effects are largest near the surface and may be significant for depths less than approximately 100 meters. No measurements have been previously interpreted in a manner to quantitatively determine the importance of these surface wave effects in the actual ocean. Such interpretation is needed because these effects are second order effects in terms of wave theory and existing theoretical approaches involve simplifying assumptions. Without suitable data interpretation, no theoretical or modeling technique can be judged suitable for routine operational use.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA124637
Entities
People
- Marshall D. Earle