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Gulf Stream Deflection by a Bottom Feature off Charleston, South Carolina
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|September 29, 1978
Summary
A undersea feature called the "Charleston bump" redirects the Gulf Stream current. This deflection causes meanders and fluctuations in the Gulf Stream, impacting oceanographic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Oceanography
- Marine geology
Background:
- The Gulf Stream is a major ocean current influencing climate.
- Topographic features can alter ocean current pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of the Charleston bump on Gulf Stream dynamics.
- To analyze the deflection of the Gulf Stream's thermal front.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 39 cases of Gulf Stream behavior.
- Observation of the continental slope topography off Charleston.
Main Results:
- A persistent deflection of the Gulf Stream seaward by the Charleston bump was observed.
- The inshore surface thermal front was deflected east or south-east in 27 out of 39 examined cases.
- Meanders frequently formed downstream of the deflection point.
Conclusions:
- The Charleston bump significantly influences Gulf Stream path and stability.
- The topographic feature is a likely cause of Gulf Stream fluctuations and meander formation.
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