Details of Award

NERC Reference : NER/A/S/2003/00596

Separation of oceanic boundary layers.

Principal Investigator:: Professor DP Marshall, Imperial College London, Earth Science and Engineering
Co-Investigator:: Professor CC Pain, Imperial College London, Department of Earth Sciences
Grant held at:: Imperial College London, Earth Science and Engineering

ENRIs:: Global Change
Science Topics:: Boundary Layer Meteorology; Ocean Circulation; Climate & Climate Change

Abstract:: This proposal is to study the dynamics of oceanic boundary layer separation and mixing in the separated wakes. A new theoretical framework will be employed to quantify the competing contributions of rotation, stratification, vortex stretching and coastline curvature to boundary layer separation. The project will also exploit a novel numerical model based on an unstructured, dynamically-adaptive mesh. This model is exciting because it offers the chance to explicitly resolve the boundary layers in relatively low-dissipation regimes relevant to the ocean. Initial calculations will be for two-dimensional rotating flow along vertical coastlines, and two-dimensional stratified flow over variable bottom topography. Subsequently we will consider three-dimensional flows with both rotation and stratification along sloping sidewalls of various geometrical configurations. Applications to be considered include the Gulf Stream, the Deep Western Boundary Current, the Aghulas Current and the Mediterranean Undercurrent. The impact of either inadequately resolving or parameterising the boundary layer will also be investigated within a tied studentship.

Authorised funds only

This grant award has a total value of £66,136

Total - T&S	Total - Staff	Total - Other Costs	Total - Indirect Costs
£6,747	£27,228	£3,075	£29,085

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