Abstract: Surface wave induced generating of high frequency internal waves beneath the mixed layer

 

 

Authors: Jeff Polton, Jerry Smith, Jennifer MacKinnon

A mechanism is presented where high frequency internal waves are generated at the base of a mixed layer when wind and surface waves characterise the turbulence in that mixed layer. These internal waves are simulated using Large Eddy Simulation techniques and are characterised by the bulk properties of the system. These high frequency waves are likely to be trapped in the upper portion of the water column where the stratification is highest and may contribute significantly to the mixing there.