On the generation of wind streaks on the sea surface by action of surface film

Abstract

It is difficult to explain the generation of wind streaks and the associated cellular motion in the sea by convective or shearing instability. It is suggested that the streaks are primarily caused by dynamic effects of an organic surface film. Variations in the film concentration over the sea surface have a feedback effect on the wind field through the associated variations in suface roughness, and a self-amplifying system can be obtained. Observations of wind streaks in the Baltic give some support for the idea. In particular, it was observed that the streaks and the associated motions disappear when the surface film was destroyed by rain.