Representing Vertical Mixing in Ocean Models:
An Overview
William G. Large
National Center for Atmospheric Research
Boulder CO, USA, 8030
In Ocean General Circulation Models (OGCMs) boundary layer turbulence,
at scales of tenths to hundreds of meters, is subgridscale and must
be parameterized. The known and potentially important features of any
such parameterization are presented. These range from the semi-empirical
similarity theory of Monin-Obukhov, to the results from recent Large Eddy
Simulations (LES) of oceanic regimes. Some common representations of
ocean mixing are examined in the context of these turbulent features.
Of particular interest are the validation of these mixing parameterizations,
especially the criteria and framework used to judge performance.