Derivation of internal solitary wave amplitude in the South China Sea deep basin from satellite images

作者：Chen, Guan Yu; Su, Feng Chun^*; Wang, Chi Mong; Liu, Cho Teng; Tseng, Ruo Shan

来源：Journal of Oceanography, 2011, 67(6): 689-697.

DOI：10.1007/s10872-011-0073-9

• Solitary wave
• Remote sensing
• South China Sea
• Benjamin-Ono equation

In the present study, theories based on the Korteweg-de Vries equation are extended to the Benjamin-Ono equation to allow the determination of internal solitary wave (ISW) amplitude from satellite images. The free surface flow induced by an ISW is derived for deep water. As a coherent structure, the amplitude of the ISW has a unique relation to the convergence/divergence of surface flow, such that the flow convergence/divergence will increase/decrease the backscattering cross section and generate bright/dark bands in satellite images. The distance between bright and dark bands can be related to the amplitude of ISW. To validate the theory, a multi-ship measurement made on 9-11 May 2005 during the spring tide period is used. A systematic approach to determine the thickness and density of the upper and lower layers is also included so that the free surface flow can be determined with a relatively high accuracy.

• 出版日期2011-12
• 单位中山大学