Multiplatform observations (Lagrangian, microstructure and microplastic) for the study of vertical v
Abstract
The proposal builds on results obtained in the framework of a previous CALYPSO DRI award, and is motivatedby two outstanding and sti,ll open questions:* How can we unravel the various processes causing vertical velocities at marine fronts?* Can we characterize vert,ical transport related to fronts and its impact on tracer subduction?The proposed approach is based on the joint analysis of multipl,atform observations that we plan to collectduring the CALYPSO 2022 campaign in the Balearic Sea, complemented by the use of simplifi,ed models toidentify the main balances and processes.The proposal includes three different contributions to the experimental plan: m,easurements with an Argofloat to complement the Lagrangian surveys, microstructure measurements to characterize mixing andidentify s,ubducting filaments, microplastics measurements as passive tracer for subduction. The analysis ofthe three components will be conduc,ted jointly, considering also additional data sets in collaboration withtheother CALYPSO PIs. Specific analyses, including the use o,f simple models to identify specific processes,are discussed. The final outcome is expected to provide quantitative indications on v,ertical velocity processesat scales of a few km to hundred meters and their impact on tracer subduction, therefore directlycontribut,ing to the main goals of the CALYPSO DRI.The results are also expected to provide insights on the potentially important effects of f,ronts onmicroplastics horizontal and vertical distribution, providing a potential explanation to the continuous findingsof positivel,y buoyant microplastics on the seafloor.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Dec 10, 2021
- Source ID
- N000142212039
Entities
People
- Maristella Berta
Organizations
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy