Observations of the structure of turbulent mixing across the Kuroshio

The mean structure of turbulence intensity across the Kuroshio in spring is presented by compositing microstructure profiles on a stream coordinate. The composite mean of turbulent energy dissipation rate (epsilon) over bar was high near fronts on both cyclonic and anticyclonic sides. On the cyclonic side, (epsilon) over bar > 10(-8) W kg(-1) (vertical diffusivity of >3 x 10(-5) m(2) s(-1)) was observed in the region of strong vertical shear of geostrophic velocity. Depth-averaged (epsilon) over bar within the depth range 50-150 m (150-250 m) was significantly higher at 0 to 50 km (-25 to 50 km) compared with >50 km from the axis. Although lower than on the cyclonic side, (epsilon) over bar at depths of 50-150 m on the anticyclonic side near the front was again enhanced. On this side, the total vertical shear of horizontal velocity was strong, whereas the geostrophic shear was weak. Citation: Kaneko, H., I. Yasuda, K. Komatsu, and S. Itoh (2012), Observations of the structure of turbulent mixing across the Kuroshio, Geophys. Res. Lett., 39, L15602, doi:10.1029/2012GL052419.