The dense overflows from the Nordic Seas into the deep North Atlantic

The Greenland-Iceland-Scotland Ridge, the bathymetric feature separating the deep waters of the Arctic and Nordic Seas from the rest of the world ocean, was discovered late in the 19th century, although its presence had been inferred prior to its discovery by the knowledge that Nordic Seas deep waters were much colder than northern Atlantic waters at similar depths. This review describes the discovery of the Ridge topography, the dense overflows themselves, their steadiness and magnitude, their source waters, and their long-term variability. It is suggested that the major research challenges for the future lie within these last two areas. The achievements of the ICES-sponsored programmes Overflow '60, Overflow ’73, MONA, and NANSEN are highlighted.

Article from Marine Science Symposia Vol. 215 - 100 years of science under ICES. To access the remaining articles please click on the keyword "MSS Volume 215".