The Xiamen Symposium on Marine Environmental Sciences

2027 Xiamen Symposium on Marine Environmental Sciences

January 12-15, 2027

Resolved boundary currents at high resolution contribute to stronger future ocean convection in the Arctic
ID:406 Oral Presentation

2027-01-14 15:35 (China Standard Time)

Session:Session 5 - Arctic Ocean: Physical Processes and their Effects on Climate and the Ecosystem

Abstract
Observational evidence indicates enhanced ocean convection near the sea ice edge in the Nordic Sea. However, whether sea ice retreat in a warming climate would further strengthen convection remains uncertain. Using a high-resolution climate model and comparing it with a low-resolution version, we find a more pronounced future increase in convection in the Arctic Ocean. A key reason for this difference is that at higher resolution, resolved boundary currents transport high-density Atlantic water more efficiently toward high latitudes along the ocean boundary. As sea ice retreats and low-density freshwater input diminishes, the high-density water can no longer subduct. Meanwhile, surface currents strengthen more than deeper currents, and the resulting shear weakens stratification before heat loss occurs. Our study suggests that future ocean convection and ventilation in the Arctic Ocean may be stronger than present projections from low-resolution models indicate.
Speaker
Ruijian Gou Laoshan Laboratory

Author
Ruijian Gou Laoshan Laboratory

    Important Dates

    • Jan 30

      2026

      Session / Event proposals open

    • Mar 31

      2026

      Session / Event proposals close
      (Extended to April 7)

    • Apr 30

      2026

      Session acceptance notifications

    • Apr 30

      2026

      Abstract submissions & registration open

    • Jun 30

      2026

      Abstract submissions close
      (Extended to July 21)

    • Aug 31

      2026

      Abstract acceptance notifications

    • Sep 15

      2026

      Scientific program released

    • Oct 15

      2026

      Early bird registration closes

    • Jan 12–15

      2027

      XMAS 2027