Seasonal Transport Variations of the Kuroshio: An OGCM Simulation

摘要: Numerical simulation is performed using a high-resolution ocean general circulation model to investigate seasonal variations of the Kuroshio transport. The simulated velocity profiles agree surprisingly well with ADCP observations and dynamic calculations. annual mean transport relative 700 m across PN line near Nansei (Ryukyu) Islands about 25 Sv (Sv [ 106 m3 s21), which almost same estimate based on long-term hydrographic observations. are also as observation; shows weak maximum in summer minimum winter. Although Sverdrup balance valid broad interior basin, it fails predict south Japan due existence recirculation. above discrepancy between theory (observations, well) studied detail by analyzing torque balance. In winter much smaller than expected from because topographic control prevents western boundary current intruding west continental slope Islands. over region changes its direction anticyclonic eddy activity related joint effect baroclinicity bottom topography. deep northeastward canceled so that interaction reduced. Since intensifies recirculation, East China Sea increased summer. present study demonstrates comparing results requires resolution suitable enough resolve locations essential dynamics baroclinic currents