Inverse methods in physical oceanography
By: Andrew F. Bennett.
Series: Cambridge monographs on mechanics and applied mathematics
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 1992
Place of publication: Cambridge; New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 346
Subjects: Oceanography -- Mathematics; Inverse problems (Differential equations)
Description: Observations of ocean circulation have increased as a result of international field programmes and of remote sensing systems on artificial earth satellites. Oceanographers are increasingly turning to inverse methods for combining these observations with numerical models of ocean circulation. Professor Bennett's work explores the potential for inverse theory, emphasizing possibilities rather than expedient or rudimentary applications. In addition to interpolating the data and adding realism to the model solutions, the methods can yield estimates for unobserved flow variables, forcing fields, and model parameters. Inverse formulations can resolve ill-posed modelling problems, lead to design criteria for oceanic observing systems, and enable the testing of models as scientific hypothesis. Exercises of varying difficulty rehearse technical skills and supplement the central theoretical development. Thus this book will be invaluable for environmental scientists and engineers, advanced undergraduates in applied mathematics, and graduate students in physical oceanography.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 317-339) and index.