Chapman and Hogg 2013.pdf (2.51 MB)
Download fileJet jumping: low-frequency variability in the Southern Ocean
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-19, 08:51 authored by Chapman, CC, Hogg, AMCCThe authors study intrinsic variability in the position of jets in a b-plane channel ocean with simple topography using a quasigeostrophic numerical model. This study links the variability in jet position with abyssal anticyclones that form as a result of interaction of mesoscale eddies and subsurface topography, reminiscent of such flows as the Zapiola anticyclone. A simple dynamical framework explaining this behavior is developed. In this framework, this study shows that the topographic anticyclones form closed regions of homogenized yet time-varying potential vorticity. Neighboring topographic anticyclones are coupled by eddy fluxes. Interaction of a baroclinic jet with these two (or more) anticyclones can drive variability in local jet strength. Predictions of the dynamical framework are then compared with the results of the numerical model, and it is demonstrated that this model has merit in explaining the observed model variability. This study argues that this simple mode of variability has relevance for the ocean.
History
Publication title
Journal of Physical OceanographyVolume
43Issue
5Pagination
990-1003ISSN
0022-3670Department/School
Institute for Marine and Antarctic StudiesPublisher
Amer Meteorological SocPlace of publication
45 Beacon St, Boston, USA, Ma, 02108-3693Rights statement
Copyright 2013 American Meteorological SocietyRepository Status
- Open