MODELING THE THERMODYNAMICS OF A SEA-ICE THICKNESS DISTRIBUTION 2 - SEA ICE OCEAN INTERACTIONS/

In this paper we examine the coupling of an ice thickness distribution model with an ocean mixed layer model. The annual cycle of the modele d mixed layer temperature, salinity, and depth are compared to observa tions from the drifting ice stations of the Arctic Ice Dynamics Joint Experiment (AIDJEX). The role of the ice thickness distribution in det ermining the ice/ocean coupling is examined. We find that the ice thic kness distribution is important for the exchange of heat, salt, and fr esh water between the ice and the ocean, especially with regard to the effects of thin, first-year ice. Several different parameterizations of the ice/ocean turbulent heat exchange are compared. The results ind icate that the storage of heat in the ocean mixed layer is an importan t physical process for determining the annual average ice thickness. D ouble diffusion and the stabilizing effects of meltwater also impact t he exchange of heat between the ocean and ice cover. Questions remain as to the relative importance of these processes and their accurate pa rameterization in ice/ocean coupled models.