Microdroplets and Transport of Moisture from Ocean

Abstract

The complex moisture and heat exchange process over the ocean was studied as a strongly coupled system of momentum, heat, moisture, and microwater droplets. Many unusual temperature profiles observed over the ocean can be naturally explained through the latent heat of evaporation of microwater droplets produced by the breaking waves. It is hoped that this preliminary analysis will lead to a better understanding of the complex sea-air interface and provide a more accurate means for estimating the rate of evaporation and heat transfer over large bodies of water.