EarthRef.org Reference Database (ERR)
Development and Maintenance by the EarthRef.org Database Team

Detailed Reference Information
Ardhuin et al. 2002
Ardhuin, F., Drake, T.G. and Herbers, T.H.C. (2002). Observations of wave-generated vortex ripples on the North Carolina continental shelf. Journal of Geophysical Research 107: doi: 10.1029/2001JC000986. issn: 0148-0227.

Sand ripples with wavelengths between 0.5 and 3 m were observed on the bottom across the U.S. east coast continental shelf off North Carolina during three side-scan sonar surveys in September and December 1999. Ripples were present in about 75% of the survey images, in particular, in regions with coarser sediments. Analysis of surficial sediment samples shows that median grain diameters range from 0.1 to 4.7 mm with large variations on the inner shelf over distances <1 km. The observed ripple properties are consistent with wave-generated vortex ripples. Analysis of concurrent wave observations indicates that the ripple crests were aligned perpendicular to the average direction of near-bottom wave-induced motions during preceding events that were sufficiently energetic to mobilize surficial sediments. Furthermore, the ripple wavelengths proportionality to near-bottom wave orbital excursions is consistent with wave-formed vortex ripples. These findings support the hypothesis that the observed strong attenuation of waves across the shelf resulted from form drag over large vortex ripples.

BACKGROUND DATA FILES

Abstract

Keywords
Marine Geology and Geophysics, Marine sediments--processes and transport, Marine Geology and Geophysics, Seafloor morphology and bottom photography, Oceanography, General, Benthic boundary layers, Oceanography, Physical, Surface waves and tides
Journal
Journal of Geophysical Research
http://www.agu.org/journals/jb/
Publisher
American Geophysical Union
2000 Florida Avenue N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20009-1277
USA
1-202-462-6900
1-202-328-0566
service@agu.org
Click to clear formClick to return to previous pageClick to submit