The Response of Closed Channels to Wind Stresses

Abstract

SummaryThe surface velocity, surface slope, and velocity profile produced by the application of a wind stress to the smooth surface of a closed channel have been determined by adapting the empirical laws of flow in smooth tubes. The estimated responses agree well with the available experimental data.It is shown that the response of a channel with a rough water surface may usefully be predicted by separating the wind stress into two parts, one producing liquid flow and the other, surface waves. This formal division was suggested by Keulegan (1951).