International Journal of Marine Science, 2024, Vol.14, No.4, 266-274 http://www.aquapublisher.com/index.php/ijms 266 Research Insight Open Access Nonlinear Mechanisms of Oceanic Wave and Mixing Processes MayH.Wang Hainan Institute of Biotechnology, Haikou, 570206, Hainan, China Corresponding email: whmj919@gmail.com International Journal of Marine Science, 2024, Vol.14, No.4, doi: 10.5376/ijms.2024.14.0030 Received: 12 Jun., 2024 Accepted: 31 Jul., 2024 Published: 15 Aug., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Wang, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproductio4n in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Wang M.H., 2024, Nonlinear mechanisms of oceanic wave and mixing processes, International Journal of Marine Science, 14(4): 266-274 (doi: 10.5376/ijms.2024.14.0030) Abstract Nonlinear processes in ocean dynamics play a critical role in wave propagation, energy transfer, and internal wave and mixing processes. Traditional linear models have limitations in explaining many phenomena in oceanic wave and mixing processes, such as wave breaking, nonlinear energy transfer, and the complex propagation behavior of internal waves. By analyzing wave-current interactions, the generation and propagation of internal waves, and turbulence-induced nonlinear mixing, this study aims to deepen the understanding of these complex phenomena and explore their impacts on climate prediction and marine ecosystems. The study seeks to provide a theoretical basis for further revealing key processes in oceanic environmental changes. Keywords Nonlinear processes; Ocean dynamics; Wave propagation; Internal waves; Turbulent mixing 1 Introduction Oceanic waves and mixing processes are fundamental components of ocean dynamics, influencing the distribution of heat, nutrients, and other properties within the marine environment. Internal waves, which propagate along density interfaces within the ocean, play a crucial role in vertical mixing and energy transfer. These waves are generated by various sources, including tides, winds, and geostrophic currents, and can travel long distances before breaking and dissipating their energy (Whalen et al., 2022). The breaking of internal waves leads to turbulent mixing, which is essential for the vertical transport of water, heat, and other climatically important tracers. Additionally, nonlinear internal waves (NLIWs) have been observed to significantly impact sediment transport and boundary-layer dynamics, further highlighting the complexity of oceanic mixing processes (Zulberti et al., 2020). Nonlinear mechanisms are critical in understanding the full spectrum of oceanic wave and mixing processes. Traditional linear theories often fall short in explaining the observed energy transfer and mixing rates, especially in regions with complex topography and strong currents (Zemskova and Grisouard, 2021). Nonlinear interactions, such as those between internal waves and topography, can lead to enhanced energy transfer and mixing, which are not adequately captured by linear models. For instance, nonlinear dynamics have been shown to play a significant role in the dissipation of internal waves above rough topography, where linear theory fails to account for the observed energy distribution and mixing rates(Zemskova and Grisouard, 2021). Furthermore, nonlinear processes are essential in the vertical mixing of heat and momentum, particularly in the surface mixed layer and during deep convection events (Woodson, 2018). These processes are crucial for accurately parameterizing mixing in ocean general circulation models, which are used to predict climate and ocean behavior. This study synthesizes current knowledge about the nonlinear mechanisms that drive ocean waves and mixing processes, which includes examining the generation, propagation, and dissipation of internal waves, as well as their interaction with topography and electric currents. By integrating recent research findings, it aims to highlight the importance of nonlinear dynamics in shaping ocean mixing and energy transfer. In addition, identify gaps in current understanding and propose directions for future research. 2 Fundamental Concepts in Nonlinear Ocean Dynamics 2.1 Nonlinear wave interactions Nonlinear wave interactions are a critical aspect of ocean dynamics, playing a significant role in the energy cascade from large to small scales, which ultimately leads to ocean turbulence and mixing. These interactions can
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