Refraction and Reflection of Nonlinear Internal Waves from Steep Topography
Abstract
AbstractBAA Number N00014-21-S-B001Office of Naval Research Project Title: Refraction and Reflection of Nonlinear Internal Waves fr,om Steep TopographyInternal waves are an important mechanism of energy transfer from tides and winds-driving mixing which shapes the, stratification and circulation of the ocean with important implications for climate. Large amplitude, nonlinear internal waves (NLI,Ws) can induce strong currents, upwell dense water high in nutrients, and also affect marine operations and acoustic communications., The processes that determine generation and propagation of NLIWs have been the focus of extensive research. The bulk of work addres,sing NLIW transformation as they interact with topography, including shoaling and breaking, has largely focused on 2D topography. A,number of remote sensing studies have noted significant redirection of NLIW energy associated with steep 3D topography, however. The, dynamics of NLIW refraction around steep topographic features is not yet well-understood. Here, we propose to explore processes th,at determine NLIW transformation over steep, 3D topography-including refraction, shoaling and reflection-along with the implications, of these processes on the internal wave environment at larger scales. The broad objective for the project is to improve forecasting, and predictability for nonlinear internal waves in the ocean. The proposed work will make use of high resolution numerical simulati,ons combined with analysis of existing observational data to examine the effects of wave characteristics, flow history, local intern,al tides and changes in rotation on NLIW transformation and on subsequent generation of residual circulation and trapped baroclinic,energy. Results from the numerical experiments will be used to guide a set of focused field observations to be carried out at Dongs,ha Atoll, a steep, nearly circular feature in the South China Sea. Extensive work has previously been carried out on NLIWs in this,region, where some of the largest internal waves on the planet have been observed. The modeling work and field observations build on, long-standing collaborative efforts between the project PIs, Taiwanese colleagues and other ONR supported researchers. The proposed, field observations, in particular, are expected to be carried out in collaboration with researchers in Taiwan. Approved for Public, Release
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Dec 10, 2021
- Source ID
- N000142212026
Entities
People
- Oliver Fringer
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Stanford University
- United States Navy