Possible angles for internal gravity wave propagation

In summary, the conversation is about the generation of internal gravity waves by the M2 tide along the coast of Norway. The question is at which possible angles can the energy propagate with respect to the horizontal, given a stratification frequency of 2 x 10-3 rad s-1. The attempt at a solution involves calculating the angular frequency and rearranging the equation to solve for theta, resulting in potential values of 85.96 and 94.04 degrees. However, there is uncertainty about these values as the maximum value of theta is thought to be 90 degrees above the horizontal.
  • #1
contempquant
13
0

Homework Statement



Internal gravity waves are generated along the coast of Norway by the principal lunar semidiurnal surface tide (known as the M2 tide) of period 12.42 h. If the stratification frequency N is 2 x 10-3rad s-1, at which possible angles can the energy propagate with respect to the horizontal?

Homework Equations



[tex]\omega={\pm}Ncos{\theta}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



Period, T is 12.42 hours = 44712 seconds

angular frequency is [tex]\omega=\frac{2{\pi}}{T}=1.41{\times}10^{-4}[/tex]

[tex]N=2{\times}10^{-3}[/tex]

Rearranging [tex]\omega={\pm}Ncos{\theta}[/tex] in terms of theta gives [tex]\theta=cos^{-1}{\frac{\omega}{\pm{N}}}[/tex]

Giving theta values of 85.96 and 94.04, but this can't be right as i thought the maximum value of theta could be 90 degrees above the horizontal? can anyone see where I'm going wrong?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
no one knows?
 

FAQ: Possible angles for internal gravity wave propagation

What are internal gravity waves?

Internal gravity waves are waves that occur within a fluid medium, such as the ocean or atmosphere, due to the influence of gravity. These waves can propagate through the medium without causing any significant displacement of the fluid particles.

How are internal gravity waves different from surface waves?

Internal gravity waves differ from surface waves in that they occur within the fluid medium, rather than on the surface. They also have a different mechanism of propagation, as they are influenced by the density differences within the fluid rather than surface tension.

What causes internal gravity waves?

Internal gravity waves are caused by disturbances in the density of the fluid medium, such as variations in temperature or salinity. These disturbances can create differences in density, which in turn, can generate internal gravity waves.

What are the applications of studying internal gravity waves?

Studying internal gravity waves can provide valuable insights into the dynamics of fluid motion and the transport of energy and nutrients within the ocean and atmosphere. This knowledge can be applied in various fields, such as weather forecasting, oceanography, and climate research.

How do internal gravity waves impact the environment and human activities?

Internal gravity waves can affect the distribution of nutrients in the ocean and influence the mixing of water layers, which can impact marine ecosystems and fisheries. These waves also play a crucial role in atmospheric processes, such as cloud formation and precipitation, which can impact weather patterns and climate. Additionally, internal gravity waves can impact the stability and safety of offshore structures and marine operations.

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
1K
Replies
15
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
4K
Back
Top