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Experiments with controlled langmuir circulations.

A J Faller

    Science (New York, N.Y.)
    |August 18, 1978
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    Laboratory experiments confirmed Langmuir circulations, a phenomenon occurring when wind and wave patterns interact. These circulations involve downward water motion, supporting existing mathematical models.

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    Area of Science:

    • Fluid dynamics
    • Oceanography
    • Atmospheric science

    Background:

    • Langmuir circulations are a key feature of wind-driven surface water dynamics.
    • Their formation mechanism, particularly the interaction between wind and waves, requires further empirical validation.
    • Previous theoretical models, such as the Craik-Leibovich model, proposed explanations for these circulations.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To experimentally demonstrate the existence of regular, steady, and reproducible Langmuir circulations.
    • To investigate the conditions under which Langmuir circulations occur.
    • To compare experimental observations with the predictions of the Craik-Leibovich mathematical model.

    Main Methods:

    • Conducting laboratory experiments with controlled wind flow over regular crossed-wave patterns.

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  • Utilizing a wind and wave tank to simulate surface water conditions.
  • Measuring the dimensions and behavior of the observed circulations, including their wavelength and the depth of descending vertical motion.

    • Main Results:

    • Langmuir circulations were consistently observed under specific conditions of simultaneous wind and wave presence.
    • The circulations exhibited a stable across-wind wavelength of 44 centimeters.
    • Descending vertical motions within the circulations were measured to reach a depth of 39 centimeters.

    Conclusions:

    • The experiments provide clear evidence for the existence of reproducible Langmuir circulations.
    • The findings align with the general predictions of the Craik-Leibovich mathematical model.
    • Further experimental investigations are necessary to fully validate the analytical model and its parameters.