Hydrography of the Labrador Sea During Active Convection
Abstract
LONG-TERM GOALS. To improve our understanding of the dynamics of open-ocean convection and its parameterization in large scale numerical models. OBJECTIVES. The main objectives are (1) to describe the large scale context in which convection occurs, including the water masses involved and the general circulation, and (2) to characterize the mixed-layer structure and variability, both laterally and vertically, and hence shed light on the nature of the overturning. APPROACH. A hydrographic data set was collected in winter 1997 as part of the Deep Convection Accelerated Research Initiative (ARI). Both CTD and direct velocity profiles were obtained throughout the Labrador Basin, marking the first time that extensive measurements have been obtained during the period of active convection. A two-pronged approach is being taken, with focus both on the large scale and on the detailed mixed-layer structure. Both of these tasks require use of the air sea flux data collected during the ARI, as well as numerical meteorological products. A model/data collaborative approach is being pursued to investigate the ramifications of convection within a boundary current. Finally, a historical hydrographic/direct-velocity data set from the Irminger and Labrador Seas has been assembled to investigate the spatial distribution of convection within the subpolar gyre.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA629680
Entities
People
- Robert Pickart
Organizations
- Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution