The Structure and Dynamics of the Ocean Surface Mixed Layer

Abstract

The present paper describes a one-dimensional unsteady model of the ocean surface mixed layer. Themodel somewhat resembles the approach of Munk and Anderson in that the differential equations for meanvelocity and temperature are solved. The Richardson-number-dependent stability functions which enterthe model are significantly different, however, as is the fact that we are able to solve problems with realisticboundary conditions. Furthermore, all empirical constants have been determined from neutral turbulentflow experiments. Comparisons of prediction and data are favorable.