Derivation of internal solitary wave amplitude in the South China Sea deep basin from satellite images

In the present study, theories based on the Korteweg–de Vries equation are extended to the Benjamin–Ono equation to allow the determination of internal solitary wave (ISW) amplitude from satellite images. The free surface flow induced by an ISW is derived for deep water. As a coherent structure, the amplitude of the ISW has a unique relation to the convergence/divergence of surface flow, such that the flow convergence/divergence will increase/decrease the backscattering cross section and generate bright/dark bands in satellite images. The distance between bright and dark bands can be related to the amplitude of ISW. To validate the theory, a multi-ship measurement made on 9–11 May 2005 during the spring tide period is used. A systematic approach to determine the thickness and density of the upper and lower layers is also included so that the free surface flow can be determined with a relatively high accuracy.