Submesoscale Processes in the Northern Red Sea: Insights From Underwater Glider Observations.

Autor: Chu, Fushuo1 (AUTHOR), Yu, Xiaolong2,3 (AUTHOR), Krokos, George4,5 (AUTHOR), Hoteit, Ibrahim5 (AUTHOR), Asfahani, Khaled6,7 (AUTHOR), Zhan, Peng1,5 (AUTHOR) zhanp@sustech.edu.cn
Předmět:
Zdroj: Journal of Geophysical Research. Oceans. Oct2024, Vol. 129 Issue 10, p1-22. 22p.
Abstrakt: The critical role of oceanic submesoscale currents in promoting energy cascade and modulating biogeochemical processes as well as the heat budget in the upper ocean has gained wide recognition. Although high‐resolution numerical simulations have enabled qualitative investigation of the spatiotemporal variability of submesoscale processes in the north Red Sea (NRS), observational evidence remains scarce. This study investigated the submesoscale processes in the NRS through field observations of underwater gliders. High‐resolution glider and satellite observation data sets reveal the spatiotemporal variation characteristics of submesoscale fronts and deepen mixed layer depth during winter. Diagnosis of potential vorticity (PV) and classifications of submesoscale instabilities demonstrate conducive conditions for the mixed layer baroclinic, gravitational, and symmetric instability. The significant negative PV induced by atmospheric cooling associated with robust fronts promotes the development of submesoscale processes. Combining the Omega equation with biogeochemical observations suggests that coherent pathways via submesoscale processes lead to the vertical transport of biomass and oxygen patches, supplying nutrients into the euphotic layer and ventilating hypoxic waters at depths. These results demonstrate the fundamental role of submesoscale processes in the ocean dynamics of the NRS. Plain Language Summary: The study investigates submesoscale processes, characterized by scales ranging from 1 to 10 km and noted for their critical role in upper ocean vertical exchange through underwater glider observations conducted in the northern Red Sea. It aimed to shed light on the intricate dynamics and characteristics of the northern Red Sea's marine environment. The study captures detailed data on oceanographic parameters, offering insights into the spatial and temporal distribution of submesoscale features and their unique dynamics in the northern Red Sea. This investigation is crucial for understanding the complex interactions within marine ecosystems, which have significant implications for regional climate patterns, marine biodiversity, and the overall health of the ocean. The findings contribute to the broader field of ocean science, enhancing our knowledge of submesoscale processes and their role in the Earth's climate system. Key Points: Evidence from glider observations reveals the dynamics of submesoscale processes at the fronts in the upper north Red Sea (NRS) during winterThe magnitude of instantaneous submesoscale equivalent heat flux can rival surface heat fluxes during winter in the NRSStrong vertical transportation within filaments could promote the exchange of nutrients in the subsurface of NRS [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Databáze: GreenFILE
Externí odkaz: