Long wave approximation using conformal mapping for large-amplitude internal waves in a two-fluid system

Abstract

This paper describes a new type of long wave model for periodic internal waves propagating in permanent form at the interface between two immiscible inviscid fluids. This model for irrotational plane motion of these waves is derived in the complex velocity potential planes where the flow domains are conformally mapped. Since no smallness assumption of wave amplitude is made and the wave elevation at the interface is represented by a single-valued function of the velocity potential, this model is applicable to large-amplitude motions of which wave profile may overhang. Numerical examples demonstrate that the proposed model can produce overhanging solutions, and variations of solutions with wavelength or wave amplitude are qualitatively similar to those of the full Euler system. It is also pointed out that the kinematic condition at the interface is exactly satisfied in the proposed model for all wave amplitudes, but not in an existing long wave model derived in the physical plane.