Surface Connectivity and Interocean Exchanges From Drifter-Based Transition Matrices.

ABSTRACT: Global surface transport in the ocean can be represented by using the observed trajectories of drifters to calculate probability distribution functions. The oceanographic applications of the Markov Chain approach to modeling include tracking of floating debris and water masses, globally and on yearly-to-centennial time scales. Here we analyze the error inherent with mapping trajectories onto a grid and the consequences for ocean transport modeling and detection of accumulation structures. A sensitivity analysis of Markov Chain parameters is performed in an idealized Stommel gyre and western boundary current as well as with observed ocean drifters, complementing previous studies on widespread floating debris accumulation. Focusing on two key areas of interocean exchange-the Agulhas system a

SUBMITTER: McAdam R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5856081 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature