Circulation in the Gulf of Mexico: Observations and Models [Hardcover]

Published by the American Geophysical Union as part of the Geophysical Monograph Series, Volume 161.

In this book, we describe our current state of knowledge on circulation in the Gulf of Mexico through 22 papers at the forefront of research. The view is selective rather than all-inclusive, with primary focus on circulation at the sea surface and at depth, including nearshore flow. In choosing topics, we have attempted to avoid the distinction between observations and models, as both are essential to advance our understanding of this exceptional body of water. We have also written for specialists and non-specialists alike in both science and industry: for those who work directly on the science associated with the Gulf, and for those whose work depends on the Gulf. And we refer here to physical oceanography, marine geology, sedimentology, coastal and estuarine science, as well as to the petrochemical and fishing industries.

Preface
Wilton Sturges and Alexis Lugo-Fernandez vii

Introduction
W. Sturges, A. Lugo-Fernandez, and M. D. Shargel 1

A Synopsis of the Circulation in the Gulf of Mexico and on its Continental Margins
W. J. Schmitz Jr., D. C. Biggs, A. Lugo-Fernandez, L.-Y. Oey, and W. Sturges 11

Loop Current, Rings and Related Circulation in the Gulf of Mexico: A Review of Numerical Models and Future Challenges
Oey, L.-Y., T. Ezer, and H.-C. Lee 31

Upper-layer Circulation in the Approaches to Yucatan Channel
A. Badan, J. Candela, J. Sheinbaum, and J. Ochoa 57

Eddy Forced Variations in On- and Off-Margin Summertime Circulation Along the 1000-m Isobath of the Northern Gulf of Mexico, 2000-2003, and Links with Sperm Whale Distributions Along the Middle Slope
Douglas C Biggs, Al³q