The Fusion of Isolated Nonlinear Eddies,
Abstract
An inviscid nonlinear model is used to examine the interaction of two isolated lens-like eddies. The barotropic layer in which the lenses are embedded is infinitely deep so that there is no interaction between the eddies unless their edges touch each other. It is assumed that the latter is brought about by a mean flow which relaxes after pushing the eddies against each other and forming a figure 8 structure. Using qualitative arguments (based on continuity and conservation of energy along the eddies' edge) it is shown that, once a figure 8 shape is established, intrusions along the eddies' peripheries are generated. These intrusions resemble arms or tentacles and their structure gives the impression that one vortex is hugging the other. As time goes on the tentacles become longer and longer and, ultimately, the eddies are entirely converted into very long spiral-like tentacles. These spiraled tentacles are adjacent to each other so that the final result is a single vortex containing the fluid of the two parent eddies. It is speculated that the above process leads to the actual merging of lens-like eddies in the ocean. One cannot prove in a rigorous manner that the above process is the only possible merging mechanism. It is, however, possible to rigorously show analytically and experimentally that the intrusions and tentacles are inevitable. Reprints.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA204017
Entities
People
- Doron Nof
Organizations
- Florida State University