Calculation of steady currents in Lake Ontario with variable eddy viscosity
A theory of steady wind-induced currents with depth dependent eddy viscosity is applied to Lake Ontario with accurate topographic representation. In this theory, the eddy viscosity has the form ..nu.. = ..nu../sub 0/ e/sup az/; where ..nu../sub 0/ and a are constants, and z is the vertical coordinate measured upward from the undisturbed free surface. Results are presented for a uniform wind from the west, and these are compared with previous results for a constant eddy viscosity as well as current measurements made in Lake Ontario during IFYGL. This study shows that, while the vertically integrated mass flux is insensitive to variations in the eddy viscosity, the three-dimensional currents are sensitive to these variations. Although the irregular bottom topography of Lake Ontario strongly influences the current pattern, the nature of the coastal jets, return flow, and upwelling and downwelling are characteristic of the exponential eddy viscosity.
- Research Organization:
- Oak Ridge National Lab., TN
- OSTI ID:
- 7086950
- Journal Information:
- J. Great Lakes Res.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Great Lakes Res.; (United States) Vol. 2:2; ISSN JGLRD
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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