A Numerical Study of Eddy Interaction with an Ocean Jet

Abstract

Gulf Stream rings exhibit a number of propagation tendencies after their release from the current. Among those tendencies identified by observational, analytic, and numerical techniques are ?-induced westward self-propagation, advection by the mean flow, and eddy?jet interaction. In this study, we numerically examine eddy propagation tendencies associated with the latter in a two-layer fluid. Results indicate that cyclones (anticyclones) can interact with the anticyclonic (cyclonic) shear of the jet. Two eddy response are seen: meridional eddy motion away from the jet when the initial eddy?jet separation is small and westward motion parallel to the jet for larger eddy?jet separation distance. The results also indicate circumstances that may be necessary for eddy?jet coalescence.