Climate models should include waves
The study found that mixing of the upper ocean by waves directly affects the air-sea exchange of heat, but isn't factored into most climate models. Image: EpicStockMedia/iStockphoto A new field study by researchers from Swinburne University of Technology suggests that the effect of wave activity on oceans should be incorporated in long term climate and weather prediction models.Mixing of the upper ocean directly affects the air-sea exchange of heat, momentum and gases, but currently wave physics exists only as a remote factor in most climate models."Large waves that occur in tropical storms and cyclones, can contribute in mixing a wider layer of the upper ocean with the cooler deeper parts, exchanging heat and carbon dioxide with the atmosphere which affects weather and climate," said lead researcher Dr Alessandro Toffoli from Swinburne's Centre for Ocean Engineering, Science and Technology.The study analysed oceanographic data supplied by Woodside Energy Ltd from the North Rankin A...