On the dynamics of the near-surface currents in the Arctic Ocean

Starting from the Navier–Stokes equation (in rotating, spherical coordinates), and of state coupled with first law thermodynamics for atmosphere, a general description near-surface flow in Arctic Ocean, atmosphere above it, is developed. This includes suitable stress boundary condition at air–ice–water interface. Invoking only thin-shell approximation, both ocean, an appropriate asymptotic reduction developed; this approach ensures that all physical attributes are retained leading order. The wind described via properties Prandtl layer atmospheric layer, some observations about geostrophic higher troposphere. corresponding equations surface wind, used to model two dominant features arctic surface-current field: rotating Beaufort Gyre and, using transformation coordinates removes polar singularities geographical coordinates, Transpolar Drift. In addition, we show conditions ice–water interface ensure sea-ice necessarily moves faster than ocean on which it floats, direction between current.