A fine-resolution 3D model of the Southern North Sea

Abstract

A 3D baroclinic finite difference model is applied to a grid fine enough to resolve the internal Rossby Radius of the southern North Sea. In an idealized test case the model develops the onset of the spring thermocline and the formation of the tidal front and demonstrates the partitioning of the Sea into the stratified northern part and the well mixed southern part. Internal baroclinic features are also resolved; internal waves of tidal period are generated by the interaction of the barotropic tide with the Dogger Bank.