IMPLICATIONS OF A NEW EDDY PARAMETERIZATION FOR OCEAN MODELS

A new parameterization of eddies in a coarse resolution ocean model yi elds deep ocean salinities and temperatures that are significantly clo ser to observations than with previous parameterizations. This is achi eved because dense water is able to flow over sills and into the deep ocean without being diluted with the surrounding water. In addition, t he depth to which surface-induced tracers penetrate in the Southern Oc ean is now realistic. This depth is overestimated by previous ocean mo dels, including those used to estimate global warming. Adding the new eddy parameterizaton to coupled atmosphere-ocean models is expected to yield greater global warming.