What does "Internal Tides" mean?
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Internal tides are waves that form beneath the surface of the ocean, caused by the gravitational forces of the moon and the sun, similar to how regular tides work, but without the splashy drama at the surface. They can travel long distances in deeper waters and are often found in areas where the sea floor changes shape, like around islands and continental shelves.
Where Do They Happen?
In places like the Mediterranean Sea, internal tides are quite common. They originate mainly in three spots: the Gibraltar Strait, the Sicily Strait near Malta, and the Hellenic Arc. These waves are like the intro to a good book—they set the stage for what happens next. From these spots, the waves can spread out for hundreds of kilometers into nearby seas, making them the ocean's version of a long-distance runner.
How Do They Work?
Internal tides mainly come in two flavors: semidiurnal and diurnal. Semidiurnal internal tides can travel great distances before they start to fade, while diurnal internal tides like to hug the seabed and stay close to the bathymetry, the shape of the sea floor. They’re like that friend who shows up to every party but never leaves the couch.
In some areas, the energy for creating these waves is quite significant, with numbers reaching about 2.89 gigawatts in certain models. That’s enough energy to power a small town or possibly a really large blender.
Tracking Internal Tides
To study these waves more closely, scientists use tools like radar and buoys that measure various ocean factors such as temperature and salinity. Imagine using a camera to catch waves in action—only these waves are far below the surface and don’t care about their photo op.
Researchers have found that the internal waves can behave unpredictably, showing different speeds and angles as they move. Sometimes they even bounce off each other like pool balls, which can make things interesting.
Why Do They Matter?
Understanding internal tides is essential for many reasons, including navigation, climate studies, and even military operations. These waves can mix ocean waters, affecting everything from marine life to weather patterns. So, while internal tides may not be as flashy as their surface cousins, their role in the ocean ecosystem is crucial, and they certainly know how to keep things flowing beneath the waves.