Air-sea interaction at an
oceanic front: Implications for frontogenesis and primary production
Abstract
Based on recent satellite observations, we hypothesize that
there exists a significant air-sea interaction at the shelf-break front
in the East China Sea. An idealized ocean-atmosphere coupled model was
designed to test this hypothesis and to study the physical processes
involved in such an interaction, with emphasis on the oceanic part. A
positive feedback between ocean and atmosphere was identified in the
model and its consequences were evaluated. We found that air-sea
interaction, when combined with sloping topography, could provide a
mechanism for the genesis of the shelf-break front. The resulting frontal
circulation and vertical mixing could bring nutrient-rich subsurface
water into the surface euphotic zone, thus making the frontal region a
conspicuous place for primary production.
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