Self-similarity of the meddy family in the Eastern North-Atlantic.

Shapiro, Georgiy I., Zenk, Walter, Meschanov, Sergey L. and Schulzt Tokos, Kathy L. (1995) Self-similarity of the meddy family in the Eastern North-Atlantic. Oceanologica Acta, 18 (1). pp. 29-42.

[thumbnail of 18403.pdf] Text
18403.pdf - Reprinted Version
Restricted to Registered users only

Download (850kB) | Contact

Abstract

In this study we analyze two groups of Mediterranean salt lenses: ''mid-life'' lenses, typically 1-2 years old, observed in the Canary Basin, and younger Meddies from the Iberian Basin. In contrast to turbulent features, vortex lenses have a clear coherent structure in the temperature and salinity fields. This physical property supports the hypothesis that a mathematical description with only a few degrees of freedom may exist. We use nonlinear transformation of variables to find a unique function describing vertical profiles at different locations inside the lens. When this function is found, its existence is considered as ''self-similarity'' of the lens structure. We also found a common function that describes each group of Meddy, Canary and Iberian, and noted a remarkable difference between the groups. A possible reason for this result might lie in the difference in lens age. Iberian lenses are in a more juvenile state and may go through adjustment transformations before turning into more stable mid-life vortices. The developed parameterization is used to calculate radii and integral heat and salt contents of Meddles.

Document Type: Article
Keywords: Meddies, Eastern North-Atlantic
Research affiliation: OceanRep > GEOMAR > FB1 Ocean Circulation and Climate Dynamics > FB1-PO Physical Oceanography
Refereed: Yes
Open Access Journal?: No
Publisher: Gauthier-Villars
Projects: SFB133
Date Deposited: 04 Apr 2016 08:20
Last Modified: 01 Feb 2017 14:38
URI: https://oceanrep.geomar.de/id/eprint/31941

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item