Turbulent Mixing in Oceanic Surface and Benthic Boundary Layers
Abstract
LONG-TERM GOALS. The long-term goal of our research program is to understand, using laboratory experiments, numerical modeling and theoretical analysis, small-scale mixing processes occurring in oceanic surface and benthic boundary layers. The knowledge so gained will be used to develop sound closure parameterizations for oceanic predictive numerical models. SCIENTIFIC OBJECTIVES. The objectives of the specific effort being reported are to improve the fundamental knowledge of turbulent mixing and diffusion processes occurring in oceanic boundary layers, with special emphases on the surface mixed layer and the wave-current boundary layer in coastal oceans. In the studies of surface mixed layers, the focus is on the penetration of a mixed layer (say, driven by the wind) into a density stratified bottom layer while transporting momentum and mass vertically. Also of interest are the effects of such transports on large-scale circulation patterns and air-sea coupling. Studies on the wave boundary layer are expected to verify the accuracy of currently used bottom boundary layer parameterizations of coastal ocean models.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA635163
Entities
People
- Harindra Fernando
Organizations
- Arizona State University