The theory of rotating hydraulics is important in the study of certain types of swift oceanic and atmospheric flows. Applications include overflows in deep ocean passages such as the Faroe-Bank Channel, shallow exchange flows through gaps like the Strait of Gibraltar, and atmospheric flows such as in the California amarine layer and jet stream. Despite a 30-year history of development the subject is not covered in standard graduate textbooks on geophysical fluid dynamics. This book covers the development of the theory of rotating hydraulics, turning frequently to supporting laboratory models and observational data. As general interest in climate and global circulation increases, the need to understand rotating hydraulic phenomena is growing. The book includes numerous exercises, making it ideal for graduate students in oceanography and meteorology. In addition, it reviews cutting-edge research, and will interest advanced researchers who seek specialized reference as well as engineering graduate students learning about hydraulics in general.

Autorentext

Lawrence Pratt is currently a senior scientist in the Department of Physical Oceanography at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. His main research interests cover the dynamics of meandering currents, especially the Gulf Stream and other separated western boundary currents. John A. Whitehead is currently a senior scientist in the Department of Physical Oceanography at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.

Klappentext

This book thoroughly covers the development of the theory of rotating hydraulics, making frequent use of supporting laboratory models and observational data. The need to understand rotating hydraulic phenomena is growing as general interest in climate and global circulation is continuously increasing. The book details cutting-edge research and includes many exercises.

Inhalt

Introduction 1: The Hydraulics of Non-rotating Homogeneous Flows 2: The Hydraulics of Homogeneous Flow in a Rotating Channel 3: Time Dependence and Shock 4: Coastal Applications 5: Stratified Systems 6: Vorticity Hydraulics Appendices