Ocean wave laboratories use real pools to simulate waves instead of relying solely on computer simulations for several reasons:
Physical Accuracy: Real pools allow for the physical generation of waves and the observation of their behavior in a controlled environment. This provides a more accurate representation of the complex dynamics of ocean waves, including wave interactions, wave breaking, and wave-structure interactions. While computer simulations can provide valuable insights, they may still have limitations in capturing all the intricate details of wave behavior.
Experimental Validation: Real pool experiments provide an opportunity to validate and refine mathematical models and numerical simulations. By comparing the results of physical experiments with corresponding computer simulations, researchers can gain confidence in the accuracy and reliability of their computational models.
Scale and Size: Ocean wave laboratories often create scaled-down versions of oceanic conditions. These smaller-scale experiments allow researchers to investigate specific phenomena under controlled conditions, such as wave propagation, wave loads on structures, or wave impact on coastlines. Conducting experiments at a smaller scale is more feasible in a physical laboratory than attempting to simulate the vastness of the ocean through computer models.
Interaction Studies: Ocean wave laboratories often aim to study the interaction between waves and various structures, such as coastal structures, offshore platforms, or ships. Physical models in real pools allow for the precise positioning of these structures and the examination of their response to different wave conditions. This interaction is challenging to capture accurately through purely computational means, as it requires detailed modeling of fluid-structure interactions.
Visualization and Observation: Real pool experiments allow researchers to directly observe and visualize the behavior of waves and their interactions. This visual feedback can provide valuable insights and aid in the interpretation of experimental results. In contrast, computer simulations may lack the same level of visual clarity and may require additional post-processing techniques to analyze the data.
While computer simulations and numerical modeling are valuable tools in studying ocean waves, physical wave laboratories provide complementary advantages in terms of accuracy, experimental validation, scale, interaction studies, and visualization. Combining both approaches allows researchers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of wave behavior and its impact on various marine and coastal systems.