Internal kelvin wave

Definition

An internal Kelvin wave is a type of wave that propagates along a boundary between two fluids of different densities, such as between the ocean surface and the deeper waters. These waves are characterized by their unique dispersion properties and are influenced by the Earth's rotation, which leads to their typically low-frequency behavior. Internal Kelvin waves play an important role in ocean dynamics and the mixing of water layers, impacting various physical processes in the ocean.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Internal Kelvin waves are bound to the boundaries of density layers, causing their propagation to follow these interfaces rather than moving freely through the entire fluid.
2. These waves typically have a phase speed that is dependent on the rotation of the Earth, making them unique compared to surface gravity waves.
3. Internal Kelvin waves can be triggered by various forces, including changes in wind patterns or gravitational influences such as tides.
4. They can lead to significant mixing in the ocean, which plays a crucial role in nutrient transport and temperature distribution.
5. The study of internal Kelvin waves is important for understanding larger oceanographic phenomena, such as El Niño and La Niña events.

Review Questions

• How do internal Kelvin waves differ from other types of waves found in the ocean?
  • Internal Kelvin waves differ from surface gravity waves in that they propagate along density interfaces rather than moving freely throughout the entire fluid. Their unique behavior is influenced by the Earth's rotation, leading to lower phase speeds compared to surface waves. Additionally, while surface waves primarily affect the upper layer of the ocean, internal Kelvin waves impact deeper layers, contributing significantly to mixing and transport within stratified water bodies.
• What role do internal Kelvin waves play in ocean dynamics and how do they influence temperature distribution?
  • Internal Kelvin waves play a critical role in ocean dynamics by facilitating mixing between different water layers with varying temperatures and densities. This mixing affects temperature distribution throughout the water column, helping to redistribute heat and nutrients essential for marine ecosystems. As these waves propagate, they can enhance or disrupt existing thermal stratification, which has broader implications for ocean circulation patterns and climate regulation.
• Evaluate the implications of internal Kelvin wave behavior on climate events such as El Niño and La Niña.
  • The behavior of internal Kelvin waves has significant implications for climate events like El Niño and La Niña due to their role in altering ocean temperature profiles and currents. During these events, variations in wind patterns can generate internal Kelvin waves that interact with existing stratification, leading to shifts in heat distribution across the Pacific Ocean. This interaction can amplify or mitigate climate anomalies associated with these phenomena, influencing global weather patterns, precipitation rates, and even economic impacts related to agriculture and water resources.

Related terms

Rossby wave: A type of wave that occurs in rotating fluids, characterized by its long wavelength and influence on large-scale atmospheric and oceanic circulations.

Baroclinic instability: A phenomenon where a fluid's density varies with depth, leading to the development of waves and currents that can disrupt stability in the fluid system.

Stratification: The layering of different density fluids within a body of water, which affects wave propagation and mixing processes.