Surface connectivity and inter-ocean exchanges from drifter-based transition matrices
File(s)
Supporting information
Author(s)
McAdam, R
van Sebille, Erik
Type
Journal Article
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 modelling include tracking of floating debris and water masses, globally and on yearly-to-centennial timescales. Here, we analyse the error inherent with mapping trajectories onto a grid and the consequences for ocean transport modelling and detection of accumulation structures. A sensitivity analysis of Markov Chain parameters is performed in an idealised 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 inter-ocean exchange - the Agulhas System and the North Atlantic intergyre transport barrier - we assess the capacity of the Markov Chain methodology to detect surface connectivity and dynamic transport barriers. Finally, we extend the methodology's functionality to separate the geostrophic and non-geostrophic contributions to inter-ocean exchange in these key regions.
Date Issued
2018-01-08
Date Acceptance
2018-01-02
Citation
Journal of Geophysical Research: Oceans, 2018, 123 (1), pp.514-532
ISSN
2169-9275
Publisher
American Geophysical Union
Start Page
514
End Page
532
Journal / Book Title
Journal of Geophysical Research: Oceans
Volume
123
Issue
1
Copyright Statement
©2018. The Authors.This is an open access article underthe terms of the Creative CommonsAttribution License, which permits use,distribution and reproduction in anymedium, provided the original work isproperly cited.
License URL
Sponsor
European Research Council
Natural Environment Research Council [2006-2012]
Grant Number
715386
NE/L002515/1
Subjects
Science & Technology
Physical Sciences
Oceanography
transition matrix
interocean exchange
surface transport
transport barriers
NORTH-ATLANTIC
OCEAN CIRCULATION
PLASTIC DEBRIS
DATA SET
MODELS
SATELLITE
PATHWAYS
SYSTEM
IMPLEMENTATION
TRANSPORT
Publication Status
Published