Observations of Energy Dissipation in the Wake of a Western Pacific Typhoon
Abstract
We are focused on understanding small-scale processes that influence the ocean's thermodynamic and dynamic properties on the sub-mesoscale (scales less than 10 km). This includes the turbulent evolution of cold wakes caused by typhoons, and the subsequent mixing processes the restore the upper ocean stratification after a storm event. I propose to investigate the energy dissipation properties of the mixed layer and mixed-layer base / thermocline transition layer during direct forcing by a typhoon. It is hypothesized that inertial energy loss occurs not only through dissipative processes in the mixed layer, but also through dissipation occurring well into the transition layer between the mixed-layer base and the thermocline, where shear is enhanced. Energy is also lost to the thermocline by conversion of inertial energy into near-inertial wave radiation. The turbulence generated at in the transition layer is tied to shear instability occurring below the mixed-layer base, which appears to be a key mechanism in parameterizations for mixedlayer response to strong wind forcing.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA526901
Entities
People
- Louis St. Laurent
Organizations
- Florida State University