Abstract
AbstractInteractions between sea ice and waves in the marginal ice zone (MIZ) have attracted much attention in the last years. However, many important aspects of those interactions remain poorly understood. This paper summarizes recent results by the authors related to the role of floe collisions in shaping sea ice dynamics and wave energy attenuation in the MIZ. The analysis is based on simulations with a discrete-element sea ice model coupled to a wave energy transport model, as well as on laboratory observations of wave attenuation in broken sea ice. We analyze collision patterns for different floe size/wave forcing combinations and their phase-averaged effects. Combined processes of floe collisions and ice–water drag are shown to lead to floe-size-dependent wave energy attenuation rates. Importantly, we demonstrate that several different combinations of model parameters satisfactorily reproduce the observed variability of attenuation rates, underlining the need for more observations covering multiple processes that would allow to constrain those parameters.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
