Near Bottom Turbulence and Sediment Resuspension Induced by Nonlinear Internal Waves
Abstract
The long-term goal of this work is to develop a fundamental understanding and predictive capability of the underlying physics of the interaction of nonlinear internal waves (NLIWs) with the continental shelf seafloor over a broad range of environmental conditions. We are particularly interested in how such interactions impact underwater optics and acoustics and shelf energetics and ecology by simulating enhanced bottom boundary layer (BBL) turbulence and particulate resuspension leading to benthic nepheloid layer (BNL) formation. The specific objectives of this project are as follows: using Large Eddy Simulations (LES), we investigate the structural transition to turbulence within the separated BBL layer under a NLIW of depression and quantify the resulting NLIW energy losses; by means of Lagrangian coherent structure (LCS) theory, we identify mechanisms for capturing nearbed particles by the BBL-turbulence and their transport/deposition into BNLs; we analyze field observations from the New Jersey shelf to identify the applicability of hypothesized BBL physics and flesh out the underlying fluid mechanics from the field data.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA601055
Entities
People
- Gustaaf B. Jacobs
- Peter J Diamessis
Organizations
- Cornell University School of Civil and Environmental Engineering