A cutting-edge laser-equipped ocean platform has made a groundbreaking discovery, revealing two rival wind-wave energy exchanges that shape the sea’s surface in surprising ways. The research collaboration, led by Dr. Marc Buckley of the Hereon Institute of Coastal Ocean Dynamics, used a custom-built laser measurement system to record highly detailed images of airflow occurring just above the water’s surface.
The team identified two distinct wind-wave coupling processes: short waves and long waves. Short waves, about one meter long, travel more slowly than the wind, creating a pressure difference that transfers energy directly into the wave. In contrast, long waves move faster than the wind, producing unique airflow patterns. These mechanisms occur simultaneously in different parts of the wave field, which could significantly improve the accuracy of atmospheric and ocean circulation models.
The discovery offers new insights into how the atmosphere and ocean share heat, gases, and momentum. The exchange of energy between the two is a central driver of global climate and weather systems. By tracking movement beneath the water’s surface with greater precision, scientists can advance their understanding of air-sea exchange processes.
A custom-built laser system based on Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) was used to capture the ocean surface in 3D. The technique provides precise information about flow structure and wind speeds, marking a first-time application over the open ocean. This research has shed light on a physical frontier, enabling scientists to develop more accurate descriptions of air-sea exchange processes.
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/lasers-reveal-a-hidden-world-just-above-the-waves