Turbulence Off the Coast of Oregon: A Large-Eddy Simulation Study
Abstract
Our long-range research goal is to improve understanding of small-scale mixing processes in the coastal ocean environment and to incorporate the effects of these processes in coastal ocean models. We will increase the accuracy of coastal mesoscale prediction models by adding physically-based approximations to one-dimensional mixing parameterizations. Recent studies of the open ocean upper boundary layer using large-eddy simulation (LES) methods have demonstrated the value of these models in describing turbulent processes in the ocean. We are now at a point where LES can be applied to a broader range of problems that include the coastal surface and benthic boundary layers. Our objectives in this work are to determine the accuracy of LES models in coastal flow scenarios, examine the role of turbulent mixing in defining boundary layer structure, and apply observations and LES results to understand and improve commonly applied mixing parameterizations (e.g. Mellor and Yamada 2.5 model and the K profile parameterization). Specific questions we will address include: Are Langmuir cells important in inner- and mid-shelf surface layers? How do mixing properties (dissipation rates, buoyancy fluxes, surface and bottom boundary layer stresses) vary from one location to another? Do the M-Y and KPP mixing schemes predict local turbulent processes in the Oregon shelf? What is the role of small-scale bathymetry variations (vertical scale ~O(1 m), horizontal scale ~O(10 m)), especially in the inner shelf? What are the fundamental differences in mixing statistics of M-Y, KPP, LES, and microstructure measurements?
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA609830
Entities
People
- Eric D. Skyllingstad
- H. W. Wijesekera
Organizations
- Oregon State University