Energy Budget of Nonlinear Internal Waves near Dongsha
Abstract
Our long-term scientific goal is to better understand the mechanisms by which mixing occurs in the ocean so that we can develop improved parameterizations of mixing for ocean models. Mixing within the stratified ocean is our particular focus, as the complex interplay of internal waves from a variety of sources and turbulence makes this a current locus of uncertainty. In this project, our broad focus is on the energy sources of nonlinear internal waves (NLIWs) in a complex environment of strong internal tides and abrupt topography (continental shelf and slope). We expect a rapid evolution of internal tides and NLIWs, and aim to understand their dynamics, energy cascade, and role in mixing. The primary objectives of the project are as follows: (1) to identify the generation sites and understand the generation mechanism of NLIWs, (2) to understand the evolution of NLIW interactions with abrupt topography, (3) to quantify the energy budget and energy cascade from internal tides to NLIWs, and (4) to quantify the seasonal variation of the energy of NLIWs near Dongsha Plateau in the northern South China Sea (SCS). Our particular interest is to understand the energy cascade from barotropic tides, internal tides, and NLIWs to turbulence mixing in the northern SCS, and to understand the evolution of NLIWs interacting with the shoaling continental slope. Our approach is to take direct observations of NLIWs near Dongsha Island, where NLIWs are often captured in satellite images. Primary platforms include an ADV Lagrangian Float; an array of bottom-mounted ADCP moorings; and shipboard EK500, marine radar, ADCP, and CTD. Our main goals are to quantify the energy budget and evolution of NLIWs across the rapidly shoaling continental slope and the gentle plateau near Dongsha Island, and to quantify the seasonal variation of NLIW characteristics.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA527040
Entities
People
- Ren-Chieh Lien
Organizations
- University of Washington