Oceanic rings and jets as statistical equilibrium states

Details Oceanic rings and jets as statistical equilibrium states Oceanic rings and jets as statistical equilibrium states

2010-11-11

arxiv.org/abs/1011.2556v2

Physics

Atmospheric and Oceanic Physics

15 pages, submitted to Journal of Physical Oceanography

Scientific paper

Equilibrium statistical mechanics of two-dimensional flows provides an explanation and a prediction for the self-organization of large scale coherent structures. This theory is applied in this paper to the description of oceanic rings and jets, in the framework of a 1.5 layer quasi-geostrophic model. The theory predicts the spontaneous formation of regions where the potential vorticity is homogenized, with strong and localized jets at their interface. Mesoscale rings are shown to be close to a statistical equilibrium: the theory accounts for their shape, their drift, and their ubiquity in the ocean, independently of the underlying generation mechanism. At basin scale, inertial states presenting mid basin eastward jets (and then different from the classical Fofonoff solution) are described as marginally unstable states. These states are shown to be marginally unstable for the equilibrium statistical theory. In that case, considering a purely inertial limit is a first step toward more comprehensive out of equilibrium studies that would take into account other essential aspects, such as wind forcing.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Oceanic rings and jets as statistical equilibrium states does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Oceanic rings and jets as statistical equilibrium states, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Oceanic rings and jets as statistical equilibrium states will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-430456