URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/jfm.2016.576
Abstract:
We experimentally study resonant
interactions of oblique surface gravity waves in a large
basin. Our results strongly extend previous experimental
results performed mainly for perpendicular or collinear wave
trains. We generate two oblique waves crossing at an acute
angle, while we control their frequency ratio, steepnesses and
directions. These mother waves mutually interact and give
birth to a resonant wave whose properties (growth rate,
resonant response curve and phase locking) are fully
characterized. All our experimental results are found in good
quantitative agreement with four-wave interaction theory with
no fitting parameter. Off-resonance experiments are also
reported and the relevant theoretical analysis is conducted
and validated.