Dissertation Proposal - Yao Gahounzo

Multi-scale ocean modeling using the discontinuous Galerkin method

Presented by Yao Gahounzo – Computational Math Science and Engineering emphasis

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Abstract

Numerical models have become an essential tool for understanding geophysical processes. In recent years, high-order numerical methods, such as discontinuous Galerkin (DG) methods, have shown great promise in accurately capturing storm surge physics, ocean currents, eddies, and ice-ocean interaction processes in complex geometries. The DG methods are naturally suited for variable-resolution unstructured grids and present advantages due to their geometrical flexibility and scalability to high-performance computing systems. My dissertation proposal aims to develop two new models using a high-order DG method for different aspects of ocean modeling. Firstly, we propose to develop an ice-ocean component into the Non-hydrostatic Unified Model of the Ocean (NUMO). This component will allow the model to be used for ice-ocean studies. Secondly, we propose to develop a 2D unstructured grid model for multilayer shallow water equations using a high-order DG method. The proposed numerical models can improve the accuracy and efficiency of simulations, ultimately leading to better predictions and a deeper understanding of geophysical processes.

Committee

Dr. Michal Kopera (Chair), Dr. Donna Calhoun, Dr. Ellyn Enderlin, and Dr. Giacomo Capodaglio