Sensitivity of a Large-Scale Ocean Model to a Parameterization of Topographic Stress

Abstract

A conventional ocean model was revised to include a tendency for velocities to relax toward a maximum entropy solution that depends on the shape of topography. The tendency, called topographic stress, generates poleward eastern boundary undercurrents, strengthens equatorward deep western boundary currents, sustains a deep Alaska Stream, and contributes to deep water exchange. Although the influence of topographic stress is most clearly seen at depth, surface expressions include reducing the overshoot of western boundary current separation, thereby limiting implied air-sea heat and freshwater fluxes near these separations.