Wave beams mix and stir the ocean to create climate
Tuesday, June 20, 2017 - 10:52
in Earth & Climate
Ocean circulation patterns have a profound effect on global climate. Waves deep within the ocean play an important role in establishing this circulation, arising when tidal currents oscillate over an uneven ocean bottom. The internal waves that are generated by this process stir and mix the ocean, bringing cold, deep water to the surface to be warmed by the sun.