Formation of structure of mixed region under influence of shear flow in stratified fluid

The forms of shear instability accompanying the formation of the mixed region are discussed. A number of processes transpiring in the ocean under the influence of the developing and stationary wind are explained. The rectangular flume measured 80 x 16 x 20 cm. Air was fed for creating a velocity shear in the water in a wind channel formed by the flume cover and the free surface of the water. The initial stratification was formed as a result of heat exchange between the cold water and warm air. A stable temperature profile was established in the water with a gradient increasing toward the surface. The initial stratification was evaluated using the temperature gradient in the layer, which was varied from 0.12 to 0.3 C/cm. The following measurements were made: air flow velocity, water low velocity and vertical temperature profile. A laser knife was used in visual observations. A study was made of the main stages in formation of the mixed region. The mechanism of entrainment of fluid by large-scale eddies was explored in depth. This research made it possible to find the dependence of the entrainment rate on the Richardson number.