Multiple jets in the Malvinas Current

• DOI: 10.1002/jgrc.20170
• Publication Date: 2013-04-23T12:32:47Z
• Authors: Alberto R. Piola; Bárbara C. Franco; Elbio D. Palma; Martín Saraceno
• Keywords: Barotropic fluid; Drifter; Boundary current; Geostrophic current; Current meter; Hydrographic survey

The velocity structure of the Malvinas Current is described based on analysis high‐resolution hydrographic data and direct current observations. show that though width exceeds 150 km, flow concentrated in two relatively narrow (~10–20 km) jets. Within these cores, observations indicate surface velocities exceeding 0.5 m.s −1 . Surface drifter, satellite‐derived mean dynamic topography, sea temperature suggest high‐velocity jets are also ubiquitous features time circulation. Both appear to be continuous extending more than 900 km along western slope Argentine Basin. These closely follow 200 1400 m isobaths. Additional cores apparent measurements observations, but weaker not slope. Though transport mostly barotropic, baroclinic identified relative geostrophic sections. colocated with barotropic Our results main core located over a flat portion bottom, referred as Perito Moreno terrace. This observation agreement recent seismic geological evidence suggesting scales played key role configuration bottom sediments