Open AccessBioluminescence imaging of wave‐induced turbulence
Author(s) -
Stokes M. Dale,
Deane Grant B.,
Latz Michael I.,
Rohr Jim
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
journal of geophysical research: oceans
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.67
H-Index - 298
eISSN - 2156-2202
pISSN - 0148-0227
DOI - 10.1029/2003jc001871
Subject(s) - turbulence , bioluminescence , flashing , breaking wave , shear stress , shear (geology) , internal wave , fluid dynamics , mechanics , geology , physics , crest , flow visualization , oceanography , geophysics , biology , wave propagation , optics , flow (mathematics) , chemistry , ecology , paleontology
The ability to measure turbulent processes on small spatial and temporal scales is a long standing problem in physical oceanography. Here we explore a novel means of measuring fluid shear stress using the cell flashing behavior of bioluminescent dinoflagellates. To illustrate this technique, we present estimates of the heterogeneous, time‐varying shear stress inside a breaking wave crest. These results have implications for a better understanding of upper ocean wave physics, air‐sea gas transfer, and the biology of planktonic near‐surface organisms as well as providing a new quantitative fluid visualization tool.