Can we observe near-inertial waves by using lowered Acoustic Doppler
Current Profiler?
Abstract
Feasibility of observing near-inertial waves with a single cast of a
lowered Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler is quantitatively assessed in
simulated Garrett-Munk internal waves. Because the inertial period is
shorter in higher latitudes and the interval between the upand downcasts
is longer in shallower depths, the performance of the estimator is
better in higher latitudes at shallower depths. Even in the best
conditions, however, the estimates are contaminated by relative
uncertainties greater than 100%. It is not feasible to estimate
nearinertial waves accurately using a LADCP cast. Nevertheless, repeated
casts at one station are capable of resolving typical near-inertial
waves.