The Damping of Water Waves by Surface Films

Abstract

Measurements have been made of the stilling of small water ripples by surface :films of cetyl alcohol. The damping is considerable and is somewhat in excess of that predicted by existing theories. Imperfections in the ripples induce a directed surface drift (surface mass transport), and it is possible that this is indirectly responsible for the extra damping. Under natural conditions surface films not only impede the formation of small waves but they are also very effective in damping them out.