Ekman Layer
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Ekman Layer
</dt>
The layer of transition between the surface
boundary layer, where shearing stress is constant, and the free
atmosphere, where the atmosphere is treated as an ideal fluid in
approximate geostrophic
equilibrium. Also called spiral layer.
</dd>
In Ekman's analysis (see Ekman
spiral), the coefficient of eddy viscosity is assumed constant within this
layer; subsequent calculations have relaxed this assumption. [[/a>|/a>
]]
References
This article is based on NASA's Dictionary of Technical Terms for Aerospace Use