On the origin of the deep CFC maximum in the eastern Weddell Sea - numerical model results

CFC tracer and d18O observations indicate that Prydz Bay inthe Indian sector of the Southern Ocean is a region of deep and bottomwater formation. Results of a circumpolar ocean circulation model whichincludes CFC, an age tracer, and numerical floats confirm Prydz Bay asbeing a convection site which contributes to the reservoir of freshlyventilated waters in the Weddell Sea. In contrast to the newly formedWeddell Sea Bottom Water, captured near bottom, water masses of Prydz Bayorigin spread on horizons which pass the ridges confining the Weddell Sea,therefore, contributing directly to the ventilation of the global abyss.