Surface tension effects on energy dissipation by small scale, experimental breaking waves

摘要: Abstract Much of the existing knowledge about breaking waves comes from physical model experiments scaled using Froude's law. A widely held assumption is that surface tension effects are not significant at typical laboratory scales and specifically for longer than 2 m. Since, however, smaller wavelengths untypical in small to medium scale facilities, a consideration indeed important. Although some emphasis has been given past, little known regarding importance following impingement breaking-wave crest especially on overall energy dissipation by waves. To answer this question study was conducted comparing rate fresh-water 10% isopropyl-alcohol distilled water solution lower tension. It found when shorter 4 m 0.11 m break under weakened influence they dissipate up 65% more wave energy. Visual observations link increased with greater intensity, air entrainment bubble lifetime. Overall, results presented here indicate inability maintain Weber similarity (ratio fluid inertia its tension) effect intensity previously assumed.