Researchers S. Peng, S. Silvestri, and A. Bodner from the University of California, Los Angeles have delved into the complex interactions within the upper ocean, shedding light on dynamics that could have implications for the energy sector, particularly in offshore wind and ocean energy industries.
The team investigated the interplay among large-scale ocean eddies, smaller submesoscale fronts, and boundary layer turbulence (BLT) using a sophisticated simulation technique called large-eddy simulation. This method allowed them to observe ocean dynamics on a scale of 100 kilometers with meter-scale resolution. They found that the structure and intensity of submesoscales and BLT vary significantly depending on the large-scale ocean flow.
In regions where the large-scale flow is converging, the team observed stronger horizontal and vertical shear productions for BLT, and stronger self-production and BLT-destruction for submesoscales. Conversely, in areas where the large-scale flow is diverging, they noted a dramatic distortion of the front isotherm, along with dominant submesoscale vertical buoyancy production and self-destruction. These findings provide a detailed characterization of BLT and submesoscales in the ocean mixed layer, modulated by a mesoscale eddy field.
For the energy industry, understanding these dynamics is crucial. Offshore wind farms and ocean energy devices operate within this complex environment, and the turbulence and fronts described in this study can impact their efficiency and structural integrity. By better understanding these interactions, engineers can design more robust and efficient offshore energy systems. The researchers’ findings were published in the Journal of Physical Oceanography, offering a valuable resource for those looking to harness the power of the oceans.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.