On Statistical Description of Natural Internal Waves Data

Abstract

In this chapter the methods of measurements of oceanic internal waves both in a fixed point (by an anchored buoy) and in moving coordinates (by a towed chain of thermistors) are described. In the final section the problem of the discernment of internal waves and turbulence is considered. Existing statistical methods of the description of internal waves’ field as well as the methods of interpretation of evidence are valid only for small amplitude (linear and weakly nonlinear) waves. When natural internal waves have strong slopes and nonlinear effects take place, traditional spectral and correlation statistical methods are hardly applicable.