Waves, Langmuir Cells, and the Upper Ocean Boundary Layer DRI
Abstract
This project will combine observations and models to improve the understanding of the upper ocean boundary layer and the ability to" model and predict its properties. In combination with the larger DRI team, we will make definitive experimental tests of the hypoth""esis that Langmuir Turbulence, specifically the equations of motion with the addition of the Craik-Leibovich vortex force and advect""ion by the surface wave Stokes drift, can accurately describe the turbulence in the upper ocean boundary layer under conditions of w"ind and wave forcing. Our measurements will include the distribution of vertical and horizontal turbulent velocity within the bounda"ry layer and the resulting fluxes, the distribution of kinetic energy dissipation within this structure and the location of these fe"atures in relation to near-surface bubble clouds. These data will be compared to Large-Eddy simulation results in order to test the hypothesis. The knowledge gained from the model-data comparisons will be incorporated into improvements of an existing second-moment closure parameterization of Langmuir turbulence. This parameterization will be incorporated into regional and global circulation models.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2017
- Source ID
- N000141712859
Entities
People
- Eric D Asaro
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Washington