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The physics of anomalous ('rogue') ocean waves
Thomas A A Adcock1, Paul H Taylor
1Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, UK.
Reports on Progress in Physics. Physical Society (Great Britain)
|October 15, 2014
Summary
Extreme ocean waves may require different physics for accurate modeling. This review explores physical mechanisms influencing these large waves in simulations and real-world observations.
Area of Science:
- Oceanography
- Fluid Dynamics
- Wave Physics
Background:
- Speculation exists that extreme ocean waves necessitate distinct physical models.
- Current models may not fully capture the dynamics of the largest and steepest waves.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review physical mechanisms relevant to extreme wave dynamics.
- To assess evidence for these mechanisms in numerical and physical wave tanks.
- To investigate the presence of these mechanisms in the open ocean.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research.
- Analysis of numerical wave tank simulations.
- Examination of physical wave tank experiments.
- Evaluation of observational data from the real ocean.
Main Results:
- Identified key physical mechanisms potentially governing extreme waves.
- Evidence supporting these mechanisms was found in controlled wave tank environments.
- Preliminary evidence suggests these mechanisms may operate in the open ocean.
Conclusions:
- Extreme waves might be governed by different physics than typical ocean waves.
- Further research is needed to confirm the prevalence and impact of these mechanisms in the open ocean.
- Improved modeling incorporating these mechanisms could enhance extreme weather prediction.
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