Publication Date:
2022-05-26
Description:
Nonlinear internal waves in the ocean are discussed (a) from the standpoint of soliton theory and (b) from the viewpoint of
experimental measurements. First, theoretical models for internal solitary waves in the ocean are briefly described.Various
nonlinear analytical solutions are treated, commencing with the well-known Boussinesq and Korteweg-deVries equations. Then
certain generalizations are considered, including effects of cubic nonlinearity, Earth's rotation, cylindrical divergence, dissipation,
shear flows, and others. Recent theoretical models for strongly nonlinear internal waves are outlined. Second, examples of
experimental evidence for the existence of solitons in the upper ocean are presented; the data include radar and optical images and
in situ measurements of waveforms, propagation speeds, and dispersion characteristics. Third, and finally, action of internal
solitons on sound wave propagation is discussed. This review paper is intended for researchers from diverse backgrounds, including
acousticians, who may not be familiar in detail with soliton theory. Thus, it includes an outline of the basics of soliton theory. At
the same time, recent theoretical and observational results are described which can also make this review useful for mainstream
oceanographers and theoreticians.
Description:
Funding was provided by the Office of Naval Research under Contracts
No. N00014-04-10146 and N00014-04-10720.
Keywords:
Theoretical models and experimental observations of oceanic nonlinear internal waves
;
Internal wave effects on acoustic propagation
;
Internal solitary waves (solitons) in the ocean
Repository Name:
Woods Hole Open Access Server
Type:
Technical Report
Format:
4161882 bytes
Format:
application/pdf
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