Abstract
Using a moving‐mesh, nonhydrostatic, spectral element model, we simulate Langmuir circulation with Navier‐Stokes equations under explicit, freely propagating surface waves. For comparison, Langmuir circulation is also simulated with Craik‐Leibovich (C‐L) equations. In both simulations, the Langmuir circulations are very similar, including temporal formation progresses and spatial structures; however, the strength of Langmuir circulation in the C‐L simulation is a bit weaker, which we suggest is due to the lack of Eulerian mean drift induced by fluid viscosity in the presence of explicit surface waves.
Key Points
Langmuir circulation is simulated with N‐S equations under explicit, freely propagating surface waves
Langmuir circulation simulated with C‐L equations agrees well with the N‐S simulation but is weaker
A viscosity‐induced Eulerian mean drift needs to be considered when C‐L equations are used
