Hyderabad: University of Dundee Expert Delivers Lecture on Ocean Wave Instabilities at GITAM
The Department of Mathematics, GITAM School of Science (SoS), Hyderabad, hosted an insightful guest lecture by Dr. Anirban Guha, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Fluid Mechanics at the University of Dundee, UK, on the topic “Long Interfacial Gravity Wave-Induced Short-Wave Instabilities.”
Dr. Guha captivated the audience with his in-depth exploration of pycnoclines—sharp density gradients in ocean layers—and their far-reaching applications. He highlighted their relevance in enhancing global ocean models, improving climate predictions, submarine navigation, and wave loading analysis for offshore structures.
The lecture delved into the complex dynamics of short waves riding atop long interfacial gravity waves, including perturbed flow behavior, linear stability analysis, and the use of Navier-Stokes equations in abstract form. Dr. Guha critically examined classical linear stability theory, explaining why traditional tools such as the normal mode ansatz and eigenvalue methods may fall short in certain contexts.
He proposed a shift toward more advanced approaches, including the Fourier mode ansatz and the derivation of an interface amplitude evolution equation, described as a Schrödinger-type equation with periodic potential. These models offer promising applications in real-world oceanographic scenarios, especially in understanding nonlinear interface evolution using techniques like the vortex blob method.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Guha emphasized that although the flow may initially appear stable under certain conditions, it can transition into instability through exponential growth, a phenomenon that can now be predicted with improved accuracy. His research provides new insights into identifying the critical length scales where wave-driven instabilities are most likely to develop.
The event commenced with a warm welcome and introduction by Prof. B.M. Naidu. Dr. M. Reza, Principal of GITAM School of Science, felicitated Dr. Guha in the presence of faculty members. The program was seamlessly coordinated by Dr. Lima Biswas and Dr. V. Kameswara Sridhar.
This session marks a significant academic collaboration, enriching students and faculty with cutting-edge research in fluid dynamics and environmental science.
