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Applied Mathematics Colloquium

Friday, April 4, 11:30 am
Cullimore Lecture Hall II
New Jersey Institute of Technology

Some Topics in Water Waves

Gregory Baker

Department of Mathematics

The Ohio State University

Columbus, OH

Abstract

Water waves have fascinated all for ages, and yet remain a challenge to scientists. The spatial and temporal scales are enormous, from microscopic scales seen in the spray from breaking waves, to the long deadly propagation of tsunamis. Even at intermediate ranges there are many interesting questions. One that will be explored is the role of singularities in the complex physical plane in wave breaking and the development of a statistical equilibrium in wave heights. The other will be the role of viscosity on the dissipation of wave trains.