Internal gravity waves: parametric instability and deep ocean mixing

Abstract

The Boussinesq approximation provides a convenient framework to describe the dynamics of stably-stratified fluids. A fundamental motion in these fluids consists of internal gravity waves, whatever the strength of the stratification. These waves may be unstable through parametric instability, which results in turbulence and mixing. After a brief review of the main properties of internal gravity waves, we show how the parametric instability of a monochromatic internal gravity wave organizes itself in space and time, using energetics arguments and a simple kinematic model. We provide an example, in the deep ocean, where such instability is likely to occur, as estimates of mixing from in situ measurements suggest. We eventually discuss the fundamental role of internal gravity wave mixing in the maintenance of the abyssal thermal stratification. To cite this article: C. Staquet, C. R. Mecanique 335 (2007).