Using C-Vector Method to Derive the Three-Dimensional Circulation Pattern Nearthe East Greenland Polar Front

摘要

The C-vector method is used to determine the three-dimensional pseudo-vorticityfield of the East Greenland Current by using a CTD data set acquired during the 1984 Northwind cruise. The value of the ageostrophic pseudo-vorticity, the total (geostrophic and ageostrophic) pseudo vorticity and the vertical component of the C-vector curl, Psi, can be calculated by the C-vector method. From these values the pseudo-vorticity can be investigated for the East Greenland Current. Additionally, the positive and the negative vertical motion at each level can be investigated from the Psi value. A two-cell structure with downward motion around the East Greenland Polar Front was found. The C-vector method also demonstrates that the vertical circulation induced by an anticyclonic gyre and the cross-coastal circulation generated by the surface wind can be depicted.... C-Vector, East Greenland polar front, Ageostrophic pseudo-vorticity, Total pseudo-vorticity.