Conceptual models of the wind-driven and thermohaline circulation

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Conceptual models are a vital tool for understanding the processes that maintain the global ocean circulation, both in nature and in complex numerical ocean models. In this chapter we provide a broad overview of our conceptual understanding of the wind-driven circulation, the thermohaline circulation, and their transient behavior. While our conceptual understanding of the time-mean wind-driven circulation is now fairly mature, basic questions remain regarding the thermohaline circulation, for example, surrounding its overall strength and stability. Similarly, basic questions remain regarding the transient adjustment and internal variability of the ocean circulation. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationOcean Circulation and Climate : a 21 Century Perspective. Part VI: Ocean Circulation and Water Masses
EditorsG. Siedler, S.M. Griffies, J. Gould, J.A. Church
Place of PublicationAmsterdam
PublisherAcademic Press
Pages257-282
Number of pages26
ISBN (Print)978-0-12-391851-2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2013

Publication series

NameInternational Geophysics
Volume103

Keywords

  • Advective salt feedback
  • Available potential energy
  • Boundary currents
  • Conceptual models
  • Meridional overturning circulation
  • Multiple equilibria
  • Natural variability
  • Thermocline model
  • Thermohaline circulation
  • Wind-driven circulation

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