The Generalized Nonlinear Galerkin Method Applied to Hydrodynamics of the Open Sea

In this paper we present new numerical algorithms based on a generalized nonlinear Galerkin method in order to solve coastal and oceanic circulation problems. The equations system is based on the primitive equations of the ocean under Boussinesq and hydrostatic approximations. These equations are transformed using, at the same time, the classical σ transformation and an original homogenization of the boundary conditions. We use a well adapted special basis to apply the usual Galerkin method and the nonlinear Galerkin method. This basis is built on a modelization of the energetic transfers through the different scales of flow. Two approaches are proposed to solve the continuity equation: the (nonlinear) Galerkin method and the method of the characteristics. We present the advantages and drawbacks of both methods.