Author(s): Hening Huang; Robert E. Fergen
Linked Author(s): Hening Huang
Keywords: No Keywords
Abstract: A model for surface plume dispersion in an ocean current is formulated to include two major mixing mechanisms: buoyant spreading and turbulent diffusion. The model is based on a hypothesis that the buoyant spreading-induced entrainment and the turbulent diffusion-induced entrainment can be added. A nondimensional number, R, is introduced to measure the relative importance of buoyant spreading to turbulent diffusion. For R >> 1, buoyant spreading dominates the plume dispersion; for R << 1, turbulent diffusion dominates. For R=O (1), both buoyant spreading and turbulent diffusion are important. Numerical solutions to the model are presented.
Year: 1997