Sack Lunch Seminar (SLS)

SLS: Jerome Neufeld - Cambridge University
Date Time Location
February 23rd, 2011 12:10pm-1:00pm 54-915
The evolution of sea ice in a dynamic ocean


The thin veneer of ice which forms on the surface of the polar oceans plays a central role in determining the high latitude radiative balance, buoyancy forcing, and ecology. Furthermore, the study of the microscopic properties of sea ice and the evolution of this binary system sheds light on many problems within the earth sciences. Here I show that drainage of cold, salty water from the interstices of sea ice can be greatly influenced by external oceanic currents. A theoretical model, tested against analogue laboratory experiments, indicates that external flows can drive convection in the mushy ice, producing an enhanced buoyancy flux. In this manner, the results illuminate the coupling between large-scale oceanic currents and surface buoyancy forcing within the polar oceans.