Research in Nonlinear Water Waves
Abstract
This work during the quarter has concentrated upon the properties and stability of capillary-gravity waves in the presence of a thin drift layer. The initial calculations of the shape of waves of permanent form were written up and submitted for publication in the Journal of Fluid Mechanics. During the course of revising the work to answer questions by referees, it was discovered that the presence of wind drift may have an important effect on the bifurcation properties and irregular wave forms of capillary gravity waves with wavelengths in the centimeter range. The wind drift layer increases the variation of wave heights in the irregular waves in which crests are not all of the same height. We are continuing with this study of wave of permanent form. Small amplitude expansions in wave height have been obtained, and work on the integral equation approach is progressing, although not as quickly as was hoped. (kr)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 31, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA216996
Entities
People
- P. G. Saffman
Organizations
- California Institute of Technology