Oceanic Response to Atmospheric Pressure Forcing.
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to attempt to accurately model the response of the sea surface height to the inverted barometer forcing. The impetus for this research is twofold: to better understand the nature of this effect and to apply these values as improved corrections to satellite altimetry records. Currently corrections are made to the altimetry record employing a model that makes assumptions of a static atmosphere in equilibrium. These assumptions have the potential to create errors. To improve this, it was decided to employ a barotropic numerical ocean model. A North Pacific model domain was selected because of the availability of both a large deep ocean basin and numerous adjacent marginal and semienclosed seas. Model runs are also being completed to analyze not only the surface pressure's effects, but also any induced influence in conjunction with the winds. Analysis of some preliminary 1 month runs showed the errors to the static response in the semienclosed and marginal seas to be much higher than that experienced in the open basin, and in some locations the error was of a comparable magnitude. Two year runs (1993-1994) are in the process of being completed and analyzed more fully. The length and time were selected to provide information of potential annual signals and the T/P mission, respectively. The analysis includes standard deviation, Fourier Transforms, wavelets and principal component analysis (EOF's), with emphasis on the semienclosed and marginal seas. Analysis to this point shows the errors to the static response in these regions to be affected by each basin's bathymetry, shape, and flow constraints. The analysis techniques employed help to understand the specifics of these characteristics. The principal component analysis will be employed in conjunction with T/P altimetry data.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA316656
Entities
People
- George Born
- Kirk R. Whitmer
- Lakshmi H. Kantha
Organizations
- University of Colorado Boulder