12:00 PM - 12:15 PM
[ACG47-12] Structure of the thermocline near the western boundary of the Pacific Ocean shown by observation data and the Munk model
Keywords:thermocline, western boundary, Munk model, Pacific Ocean, Mindanao Dome
Observation data from Thermosalinographs (TSG) recorded microstructures such as spike-like fluctuations in water temperature and salinity along the 137°E (WOCE-P9), from 5°N to 10°N, as well as corresponding changes in carbon dioxide partial pressure along the 137°E (WOCE-P9), from 5°N to 10°N. The CTD observation results showed that theremocline in the area is characterized by a dome-like rise (called Mindanao Dome). CTD observation data showed that at the apex of this cold water dome, around 8°N, the thermocline rose nearly to the sea surface. This phenomenon also means that carbon dioxide previously absorbed by the ocean is being transported to closer the sea surface.
Why does the thermocline rise in a dome shape in this area? The Wind-driven Ocean Circulation Model (Munk, 1950) help to explain why the thermocline develops a dome shape. In the Munk model, a vortex train that decays exponentially toward the east is created near the west coast simply by applying zonal wind stress. The applied wind stress also determines the position and strength of the vortex circulation. The cold water dome can be interpreted as one of the eddy trains. A similar phenomenon may also occur in the Atlantic Ocean and in the Indian Ocean.
Why does the thermocline rise in a dome shape in this area? The Wind-driven Ocean Circulation Model (Munk, 1950) help to explain why the thermocline develops a dome shape. In the Munk model, a vortex train that decays exponentially toward the east is created near the west coast simply by applying zonal wind stress. The applied wind stress also determines the position and strength of the vortex circulation. The cold water dome can be interpreted as one of the eddy trains. A similar phenomenon may also occur in the Atlantic Ocean and in the Indian Ocean.