Ripple Dynamics and Benthic Transformations under Variable Wave Forcing

The near-term objectives of our research are to: (i) study the dynamics and morphology of symmetric/asymmetric ripples generated under symmetric/asymmetric flow for both sustained and variable forcing and in homogeneous and heterogeneous sediments; (ii) investigate the processes responsible for ripples decay/degradation in homogeneous and heterogeneous sediments; (iii) study segregation processes frequently observed in the field but mostly overlooked in laboratory/theoretical studies; (iv) develop quantitative models for ripple formation, growth, transformation and decay under the above conditions; and (v) verify these models using laboratory and available field data.