MicroSoar Microstructure Observations During the Coastal Mixing and Optics Experiment: R/V Endeavor Cruises from 14-Aug to 1-Sep 1996 and 25-Apr to 15-May 1997
Abstract
Small-scale turbulence is a random phenomenon, and theoretical relationships about turbulent processes are often only crude approximations. There are relatively few accurate statements that can be made about a turbulent flow without recourse to experimental evidence from flow itself (Tennekes and Lumley, 1972). In the atmosphere, turbulent flows are relatively easy to observe. In the ocean, however, it is very difficult to directly visualize small-scale turbulence. Satellite remote sensing images allow visualizations of large scale turbulent motions, such as eddies and river plumes entering the ocean. Below the water's surface however, it is difficult and expensive to obtain information about the details of fluid motion. Wind speed at the water's surface has been used to estimate mixed-layer turbulence. This is because the mixing layer developed by wind stress is known to be a principle source of turbulent mixing in the waters above the thermocline. It is usually assumed that the energy available for mixing, and the dissipation, are both proportional to the cube of the wind speed (Dillon and Caldwell, 1980).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA400393
Entities
People
- A. Y. Erofeev
- G. H. May
- J. A. Barth
- T. M. Dillon
Organizations
- Oregon State University