On Parsons' model of the ocean circulation.

Abstract

A model was constructed for the circulation of a combined and subpolar ocean. It is shown that this theory alters the global circulation pattern. Outcropping of the cold layer still occurs but along the path described by Luyten, Pedlosky and Stommel i.e., without an associated separated 'Gulf Stream' current. The Ekman flux across the outcrop line implies a water mass conversion which can be calculated directly from the wind stress distribution and is of the order of 5 Sverdrups. This water is allowed to return to the cold water domain along the northern rim and forms a novel branch to the classical Stommel-Arons circulation picture.