The Algerian current: comparisons between in situ and laboratory data sets

The Algerian current is compared to a laboratory current created in a rotat ing tank. The experimental current flows along a regular wall and over a mo tionless denser water, with a constant flow rate and a uniform velocity at the source. Data collected in the laboratory are compared with satellite an d in situ data sets. The various characteristic phenomena are shown to be s imilar: both currents are unstable and generate meanders and cyonic-anticyc lonic eddy-pairs. Eventually, the anticyclone remains and is associated wit h a marked lowering of the interface. The phase speed and growth of the mea nders and the shape and size of the eddies in the laboratory are in quite g ood agreement with those deduced from in situ data and satellite images. Th e observations and the velocity and interface height measurements in the la boratory allow a better understanding of the Algerian current dynamics and its instability process. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved .