Aspects of Sound Speed Structure and Related Water Properties in the Gulf of Mexico, June-December 1969.
Abstract
Oceanographic data collected in the Gulf of Mexico during June-December 1969 indicate that the dominant modifier of sound speed structure and related parameters is the East Gulf Loop Current and associated waters. Westerly migration of a detached East Gulf Loop eddy radically altered local sound speed structure in a period as short as one month, while sound speed structure in the eddy remained essentially unchanged during the survey period. Existence of a relic eddy in the western gulf was suggested by temperature-salinity-oxygen relationships. Frequency distributions of sound speed within the thermocline are examined and the existence of two primary sound speed regimes is established. Examples of the effects of the detached eddy on sound ray paths in the thermocline are shown. Use of thermal structure measuring devices to monitor regime movements and to locate their boundaries is discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA024265
Entities
People
- Laurie E. Jarvela
- William Mccomas
Organizations
- Naval Oceanographic Office