On the generation of double Kelvin waves

Abstract

This paper considers the linear response of a homogeneous uniformly rotating ocean of infinite horizontal extent with a discontinuity in depth to a variable horizontal wind stress. It is shown that, for either a transient or time-periodic wind stress which is suddenly applied to an initially calm sea surface, the asymptotic response far from the forcing region is dominated by an outgoing dispersive wave which is trapped along the depth discontinuity, i.e. a double Kelvin wave. Plots of the forced wave patterns in the neighbourhood of the depth discontinuity itself are also presented.