The lifecycle of topographically-generated internal waves

Abstract The dissipation and mixing associated with topographically generated internal waves form a critical component of ocean physics. In this chapter, we present a review of the basic components of their lifecycle, describing their generation, propagation, and interactions with mean flows, topography, and other internal gravity waves. Because of their established importance for ocean mixing, we focus on the distinct energy pathways towards dissipation of internal tides and lee waves. We close the chapter with a discussion of outstanding questions in this area of research.