Skip to content | Change text size
 

M4151 Waves in fluids

Aims: To study simple examples of linear and nonlinear waves and to consider basic concepts arising in the theory of wave motion. This unit serves as an introduction to the theory of waves, a common feature of many physical systems.

Syllabus: The theory of linear and nonlinear waves with particular application to waves in geophysical fluid dynamics. General theory of linearised wave motion for dispersive waves, with specific application to water waves and internal waves. Phase-averaging, wave action and group velocity, radiation stress. Weakly nonlinear wave packets, resonant interactions, weakly nonlinear long waves and solitary waves.

Prerequisites: MTH3362 Fluid Dynamics

Recommended texts:
Lighthill, M.J., Waves in Fluids, CUP, 1978.
Whitham, G.B., Linear and Nonlinear, Waves, Wiley, 1974.

Lecturer: Simon Clarke



 
For current students