The Transpolar Drift current: an ocean-ice-wind complex in rotating, spherical coordinates

Abstract

Starting from the governing equations for a viscous, incompressible fluid, written in a rotating, spherical coordinate system that is valid at the North Pole, the thin-shell approximation is invoked. No further approximations are needed in the derivation of the system of asymptotic equations used here. Suitable stress conditions on the upper and lower surfaces of the ice are described, leading to the construction of a solution for the Transpolar Drift current. This involves the specification of a suitable geostrophic flow, combined with an Ekman component. Then, via the stress conditions across the ice at the surface, a solution for the motion of the ice, and for the associated wind blowing over it, are obtained. In addition, the model adopted here provides a prediction for the reduction in ice thickness along the Transpolar Drift current as it passes through the Fram Strait. The formulation that we present allows considerable freedom in the choices of the various elements of the flow; the model chosen for the physical properties of the ice is particularly significant. All these aspects are discussed critically, and it is shown that many avenues for future investigation have been opened.