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Measurements of Waves in a Wind-wave Tank Under Steady and Time-varying Wind Forcing
Published on: February 13, 2018
Satellite measurements reveal persistent small-scale features in ocean winds
Dudley B Chelton1, Michael G Schlax, Michael H Freilich
1College of Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences, 104 Ocean Administration Building, Oregon State University, Corvallis OR 97331-5503, USA.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|January 17, 2004
Summary
Satellite data reveal persistent small-scale ocean wind stress features. These findings highlight air-sea interactions and ocean currents, impacting oceanographic research.
Area of Science:
- Oceanography
- Atmospheric Science
- Satellite Remote Sensing
Background:
- The global ocean exhibits complex wind patterns.
- Understanding near-surface wind stress is crucial for air-sea interaction studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and analyze persistent small-scale features in wind stress curl and divergence.
- To investigate the relationship between these features and oceanographic phenomena.
Main Methods:
- Utilized four-year averages of 25-km resolution QuikSCAT satellite radar scatterometer data.
- Analyzed near-surface wind speed and direction over the global ocean.
Main Results:
- Discovered persistent small-scale features in wind stress curl and divergence.
- Observed clear evidence of air-sea interaction at sea surface temperature fronts.
- Identified influences of islands and coastal mountains on wind stress patterns.
- Documented distinctive curl patterns generated by ocean currents like the Gulf Stream.
Conclusions:
- Previously unresolved small-scale wind stress features have significant implications.
- These findings enhance our understanding of oceanographic processes and air-sea interactions.
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