Wave Boundary Layer Processes Over an Irregular Bottom
Abstract
The broad long-term goal of this research is to extend understanding of wave and current processes over a very rough boundary, specifically that presented by a coral reef. From this understanding we aim to develop models that account for the effects of roughness on wave dissipation, sediment transport and biophysical interactions. The objective of this project is to relate measurements of roughness over a highly irregular bottom to observations of the wave flow at various scales, with the goal of developing a relation between roughness and wave and current energy dissipation and shear stress. The specific objectives include three elements: (1) observations of the small-scale turbulent processes over a wave orbital excursion; (2) a broad scale characterization of the wave field and its response to roughness; (3) high-resolution spatial surveys of the roughness over the study region. These observations will be further extended using a numerical model of the wave field in the nearshore region. Concurrent observations of sediment load and optical properties will explore the connection between shear stress and sediment suspension and transport over the complex reef topology.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA522911
Entities
People
- Geno Pawlak
Organizations
- University of Hawaiʻi System