Velocity structure of the benthic ocean.

Abstract

Velocity measurements in the outer part of the bottom boundary layer on the Hatteras Abyssal Plain were examined for indicators of boundary-layer turbulence. Velocity fluctuations in two frequency bands, near-inertial and high-frequency (1-4 cph), display mixed-layer signatures. The turbulence, so measured, was modulated on inertial and tidal time scales and extends intermittently to the mixed layer top. The near-inertial velocities are less energetic within the mixed layer than above and, for the dominant clockwise component, the mixed layer leads the interior. (from author's abstract)