A Numerical Investigation of Mixed-Layer Processes in the Arabian Sea.
Abstract
The primary result accomplished during this-ONR project was the development of an ocean model of intermediate complexity that is able to simulate accurately the diurnal and annual cycles of mixed-layer thickness at the WHOI mooring site in the Arabian Sea. Modifications that allowed this success were: i) allowing the density jump at the bottom of the mixed layer to vary realistically throughout the day; and ii) including a diurnal-thermocline layer. When a biological model is coupled to this physical model, the response is improved in that blooms are weakened and broadened by the diurnal variability; however, the variability associated with active and break periods of the monsoon have a much larger effect on the blooms. The addition of salinity variability is essential for simulating mixed-layer variability in the Bay of Bengal where rainfall and river runoff are intense. In contrast, salinity effects are much smaller in the Arabian Sea where these forcings are an order of magnitude weaker.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 11, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA360002