Reflection of intrathermocline eddies on the ocean surface

Abstract

In the northeastern portion of the Atlantic Ocean, at depths of 500–1500 m, there are regular intrathermocline eddies that are characterized by high temperature and salinity. As these eddies interact with the ambient medium, they can transmit a dynamic signal to the ocean surface. These eddies are clearly identifiable on altimetric maps showing variations in the ocean’s surface level obtained by satellites. Such observations allow recording not only the complex interaction pattern of surface cyclonic and anticyclonic eddies, but also the processes of merging and separation of intrathermocline eddies.