Interfacial Richardson number (source code)

= Interfacial Richardson number
{title2=$\mathrm{Ri}_i=g'\delta/u^2$}

A local ratio of stabilizing buoyancy to shear across an interface of thickness $\delta$, using <reduced gravity> jump $g'$ and characteristic velocity $u$. The dimensionless value is $\mathrm{Ri}_i=g'\delta/u^2$. It is distinct from a whole-layer bulk <Richardson number> based on the total mixed depth. Local <entrainment> laws use this ratio when the transition thickness and velocity characterize the turbulence-producing region.