The distribution, circulation and variability of subantarctic mode water ...

• Main Author: Herraiz Borreguero, L
• Format: Thesis
• Language: unknown
• Published: University Of Tasmania 2023
• Subjects: Southern Ocean
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.25959/23230646.v1; https://figshare.utas.edu.au/articles/thesis/The_distribution_circulation_and_variability_of_subantarctic_mode_water/23230646/1

The temporal and spatial variability of Subantarctic Mode Water (SAMW) is investigated using a compilation of several observational data sets: hydrography, XBTs, Argo profiles, satellite altimetry, and a climatology. The subduction and export of SAMW as part of the overturning circulation play an important role in global heat, freshwater, carbon and nutrient budgets. Determining the formation, circulation, and variability of SAMW is therefore an important step towards understandmg the Southern Ocean's role in climate variability and change. The spatial distribution of SAMW properties and export paths is investigated. SAMW is identified by a dynamical tracer: a minimum in potential vorticity. SAMW consists of several modes with distinct properties rather than a continuous water mass with properties that gradually evolve towards the eastern region of the Southern Ocean as previously believed. (Modified) Montgomery streamlines on the density surfaces corresponding with potential vorticity (PV) minima are used ...