Random model of evaporation of oil at sea

Abstract

When oil is spilled at sea, a portion of it evaporates. The amount depends upon the oil's physical properties and environmental conditions. This paper explores the effect of a random environment on the evaporation process. A random model is developed to predict the residual volume of oil as a function of elapsed time, initial oil volume and its physical properties, and random environmental factors (wind speed and ambient temperature). A simple example illustrates application of the model. Also, a simulation illustrates the effects of random wind speeds on the residual volume and area of the oil slick as a function of time.