Sea-surface drift currents induced by wind and waves.

Abstract

Estimates wind induced shear currents and mass transport at various fetches of both clean and slick sea surfaces. Outlines laboratory findings for wave induced surface drift currents and surface mass transports and examines field estimation of mass transport from wave spectrum and from dominant waves and also estimation of probable surface drift currents. Uses a wind friction velocity parameter and a non-dimensional expression for wind stress coefficients. Compares present estimation with other calculations and ocean measurements. Discusses drift currents of a slick surface, studies increase of mass transport due to films and analyses experimental results, noting a decrease of wind induced surface drift current due to film. Considers linear superposition of surface drift currents, and effects of water depth on such currents. (C.J.U.)