Bottom boundary layer in tidal flow: experimental data

Abstract

Motion regime in the bottom boundary layer in tidal flow, as determined by laboratory studies, is discussed. More recent studies have examined the transition from laminar to the turbulent regime in an oscillating flow. Theoretical estimates of the critical Reynolds number using the method of small perturbations and the energy method are presented and compared with experimental data. Hydrodynamic properties of the sea bottom are discussed. Experimental data on mean velocity profiles, characteristics of turbulence, velocity spectra, and temperature fluctuations are summarized and discussed. (J.M.M.)