Internal waves most often arise at a boundary between
water layers of different densities, where the particles of a water are
in a condition of a steady-state equilibrium. Particles oscillate under
the influence of wind and tidal waves, synoptic eddies, changes in atmospheric
pressure and other phenomena. The oscillations are spread in denser water
as internal waves with heights of 20-100 m. Their lengths can vary from
hundreds meters up to several kilometres, and their period, from several
minutes up to tens of hours. Internal waves react to cyclical changes of
temperature and salinity at depth. Sometimes, during period of calm or
weak winds they are observed in alternating, smooth bands on the surface
of the Ocean. These bands are located above troughs of internal waves.
Internal waves influence the navigation of submarines,
the overall performance of acoustic devices, migration of plankton and
fish, etc.
Development scheme of an internal wave
|
1.
Smooth bands
2. Oceanographic devices |