Some Features of Wind Action on Shallow Lakes

The shear stress due to wind action on a shallow lake or lagoon creates a velocity distribution in the vertical direction. Assuming the vertical turbulent diffusion coefficient, K, is constant, the velocity distribution is determined with and without Coriolis effects. Relating the water velocity at the surface to the wind velocity, U, produces the result that K is directly proportional to U if the wind shear stress coefficient, C_f, is constant. It is also established that the surface reaeration coefficient, K₂, is directly proportional to U if C_f is constant. Oxygen and heat transfer data obtained by others indicate that K₂ is proportional to U² for large values of U. Three examples of application are presented concerning Lake Chapala, Mexico.