This project is a theoretical study of the instability mechanisms of zonal equatorial currents. The PI will use isopycnal coordinates, and investigate stability in realistic stratifications. Specific questions to be considered include: 1) conditions sufficient for stability, 2) the energy exchance between the mean and the disturbances, 3) the predicted modes that result, and 4) their structure. The particular oceanic phenomena motivating the study is the 21 day oscillation in the tropical Pacific
