Scientists have found a distinctive kind of breaking wave in the deep sea representing a subtle force that can stir the seabed. The so-called “internal waves” have the distinctive Kelvin-Helmholtz billows, which is present throughout nature. The researchers said “turbulence from the waves might play a role in ocean mixing and the stirring of bottom sediments, thus helping distribute rare nutrients to abyssal life.”
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Seabed Rumblings
Scientists have found a distinctive kind of breaking wave in the deep sea representing a subtle force that stirs the seabed and helps distribute rare nutrients.
Monthly Issue
April 2026
In this monthly issue, we examine how our understanding of energy — and how we source and use it — is evolving.
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