Self-similarity of the meddy family in the Eastern North-Atlantic
| Autor: | Shapiro, Gi, Zenk, W, Meschanov, Sl, Tokos, Kls |
|---|---|
| Rok vydání: | 1995 |
| Předmět: | |
| Zdroj: | Oceanologica Acta, 18 (1). pp. 29-42. Oceanologica Acta (0399-1784) (Gauthier-Villars), 1995, Vol. 18, N. 1, P. 29-42 |
| Popis: | 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. |
| Databáze: | OpenAIRE |
| Externí odkaz: |
|