Transformation of mode-2 internal solitary wave over a pseudo slope-shelf

Numerical simulations are performed to investigate the effect of wave amplitude in a numerical wave tank on the evolution of a convex mode-2 internal solitary wave (ISW) propagating over a pseudo slope-shelf. A finite volume method based on a Cartesian grid system is adopted to solve the Navier-Stokes equations using Improved Delayed Detached Eddy Simulation model for the turbulent closure. Numerical results reveal three types of waveform during wave generation on the flat bottom: (1) pseudo vortex shedding in the case of very large initial amplitude; (2) PacMan phenomenon in large amplitude; and (3) smooth mode-2 ISW for small amplitude. During wave propagation on the plateau, the first type of waveform induces a quasi-elevated mode-1 ISW; the second generates chaotic internal waves with significant reduction in amplitude; while the third renders a slightly deformed mode-2 ISW across the plateau. Moreover, the decrease in the magnitude of leading trough is more intense than that in the leading crest due to strong wave-obstacle interaction in the case of very large initial wave amplitude