| Abstract: | This paper discusses, in terms of the geometrical optics approximation, how large-scale bottom irregularities influence the
propagation of Rossby waves in the ocean. To describe the major peculiarities of the phenomenon, a two-layer model is applied,
with the depth of the upper layer being considerably smaller than that of the lower layer. However, even with the bottom topography
being allowed for, the wave motion is described by two Rossby wave modes, namely, a barotropic mode and a baroclinic mode.
It is demonstrated that barotropic mode transformation caused by large irregularities of the sea-floor may lead to wave interaction,
resulting in their anomalous distribution.
Translated by Vladimir A. Puchkin. |
