Long-term observations on the southern flank of Georges Bank. Part 1: a description of the seasonal cycle of currents, temperature, stratification, and wind stress.

Abstract

Current measurements on the southern flank of Georges Bank at depths of 45 and 75 m between May 1975 and March 1979 are analyzed. Seasonal differences in strength and direction are discussed. Most of the seasonal change is explained in terms of the seasonal change in the cross bank density field. There was no significant seasonal change in the monthly mean along bank flow at 75 m. In winter, only about 21% of the along bank flow at 45 m can be explained in terms of tidal rectification, the density field, and wind stress. In late summer, however, almost all of the flow at 45 m can be explained by these three mechanisms. (D.W.T.)