A METHOD FOR IMPROVED REPRESENTATION OF DENSE WATER SPREADING OVER TOPOGRAPHY IN GEOPOTENTIAL-COORDINATE MODELS

A new technique for incorporating processes of near-bottom tracer tran sport over sloping topography in geopotential-coordinate ocean circula tion models is presented. It is based on a ''hybrid'' approach, coupli ng a simple terrain-following bottom boundary layer model to the stand ard ocean general circulation model. Tests in simplified configuration s show enhanced downslope spreading of passive and active (density) tr acers. The method is helpful for both coarse-resolution global climate studies and biogeochemical coastal modeling studies.