| Abstract: | A model for the spectrum of capillary waves has been constructed. These waves are generated at the crests of short gravity
waves and decay due to viscosity. Capillary wave generation leads to short gravity wave dissipation. Using empirical data
on the short gravity wave dissipation spectrum, a relation for the capillary wave spectrum is derived from the equation of
energy balance of capillary waves. The capillary wave spectrum is matched with the known Donelan-Pierson spectrum for short
gravity waves. The obtained relation for the spectrum of wind-generated ripple is compared with the data of laboratory experiments.
Translated by Vladimir A. Puchkin. |
