Generation and Evolution of Internal Waves in Luzon Strait

Abstract

Abstract : Our long-term scientific goals are to understand the dynamics and identify mechanisms of small-scale processes i.e., internal tides, inertial waves, nonlinear internal waves (NLIWs), and turbulence mixing in the ocean and thereby help develop improved parameterizations of mixing for ocean models. Mixing within the stratified ocean is a particular focus as the complex interplay of internal waves from a variety of sources and turbulence makes this a current locus of uncertainty. For this study, our focus is on generation, propagation, evolution, and dissipation of small-scale internal waves and internal tides as the Kuroshio and barotropic tides interact with the two prominent submarine ridges in Luzon Strait. The primary objectives of this observational program are to quantify 1) the generation of NLIWs and internal tides in the vicinity of Luzon Strait, 2) the energy flux of NLIWs and internal tides into the Pacific Ocean and South China Sea (SCS), 3) the effects of the Kuroshio on the generation and propagation of NLIWs and internal tides, 4) the seasonal variation of NLIWs and internal tides, and 5) to study other small-scale processes, e.g., hydraulics and instabilities along internal tidal beams and at the Kuroshio front.