A Mechanism for the Increase of Wind Stress (Drag) Coefficient with Wind Speed over Water Surfaces: A Parametric Model

S. A. Hsu Coastal Studies Institute, School of Geoscience, Louisiana State University, Baton Rough, LA 70803

Search for other papers by S. A. Hsu in
Current site
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
Full access

Abstract

A mechanism is proposed for a physical explanation of the increase in wind stress (drag) coefficient with wind speed over water surfaces. The formula explicitly incorporates the contribution of both winds and waves through the parameterizations of an aerodynamic roughness equation. The formula is consistent with measurements from the field and with results obtained by numerical models for storm surges and water level fluctuations.

Abstract

A mechanism is proposed for a physical explanation of the increase in wind stress (drag) coefficient with wind speed over water surfaces. The formula explicitly incorporates the contribution of both winds and waves through the parameterizations of an aerodynamic roughness equation. The formula is consistent with measurements from the field and with results obtained by numerical models for storm surges and water level fluctuations.

Save