Virtual laboratory experiments on the interaction of a vortex with small-scale topography

Abstract

This study presents numerical analogs of laboratory experiments designed to explore the interaction of broad geophysical flows with irregular small-scale bathymetry. The previously reported “sandpaper” theory offered a succinct description of the cumulative effect of small-scale topographic features on large-scale flow patterns. However, initial investigations have been conducted using numerical models with simplified quasi-geostrophic equations that may inadequately represent the dynamics realized in the world’s oceans. This investigation advances previous efforts by using a fully nonlinear Navier–Stokes model configured for rotating tank experiments to (i) validate the theory and (ii) offer guidance for future physical experiments that will confirm theoretical ideas.