The Central Bank vortex in the Barents Sea: Watermass transformation and circulation

The formation and circulation of bottom water in the western Barents Sea are examined. Freezing and induced salt ejection are identified as the mechanisms creating the dense waters. The bottom water formed above the Central Bank creates a stationary anticyclonic vortex which traps the water column above the bank and limits lateral exchanges. Only under extreme conditions, as during the strong inflow of warm Atlantic Water in the early 1980s, will the water column be completely replaced, thus inhibiting ice formation and reducing the bottom-water production. The situation described lasted until the Atlantic inflow to the Barents Sea returned to normal and the Central Bank vortex was re-established.

Article from Marine Science Symposia Vol. 195 - "Hydrobiological variability in the ICES Area, 1980-1989", symposium held in Mariehamn, 5-7 June 1991. To access the remaining articles please click on the keyword "MSS Vol. 1995".