Article Type:
Research Article

A Method for Improved Representation of Dense Water Spreading over Topography in Geopotential-Coordinate Models

A. Beckmann Alfred-Wegener-Institute for Polar and Marine Research, Bremerhaven, Germany

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R. Döscher Alfred-Wegener-Institute for Polar and Marine Research, Bremerhaven, Germany

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Print Publication:
01 Apr 1997
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1175/1520-0485(1997)027<0581:AMFIRO>2.0.CO;2
Page(s):
581–591
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Abstract

A new technique for incorporating processes of near-bottom tracer transport over sloping topography in geopotential-coordinate ocean circulation models is presented. It is based on a “hybrid” approach, coupling a simple terrain-following bottom boundary layer model to the standard ocean general circulation model. Tests in simplified configurations show enhanced downslope spreading of passive and active (density) tracers. The method is helpful for both coarse-resolution global climate studies and biogeochemical coastal modeling studies.

Corresponding author address: Dr. A. Beckmann, Alfred-Wegener-Institute for Polar and Marine Research, Am Handelshafen 12, D-27570 Bremerhaven, Germany.

Abstract

A new technique for incorporating processes of near-bottom tracer transport over sloping topography in geopotential-coordinate ocean circulation models is presented. It is based on a “hybrid” approach, coupling a simple terrain-following bottom boundary layer model to the standard ocean general circulation model. Tests in simplified configurations show enhanced downslope spreading of passive and active (density) tracers. The method is helpful for both coarse-resolution global climate studies and biogeochemical coastal modeling studies.

Corresponding author address: Dr. A. Beckmann, Alfred-Wegener-Institute for Polar and Marine Research, Am Handelshafen 12, D-27570 Bremerhaven, Germany.

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