Numerical modelling of mercury evasion in a two-layered Adriatic Sea using a coupled atmosphere-ocean model

A new mercury (Hg) evasion model for the Adriatic Sea was developed accounting for the ocean mixed layer depth in order to decrease Hg depletion at the surface. Previously modelled airborne Hg species and measured Hg in the ocean were used. Simulations were run using one- and two-way coupled atmosphere-ocean models. Discrepancies in evasion between the applied coupling schemes were shown to be insignificant. The model was evaluated by applying various wind parameterisations and diffusive coefficient formulae. Relatively high discrepancies among the applied methods were observed. The results of a shorter simulation were extrapolated over a one-year period by applying a measurement-based adaptation. We obtained good agreement with previously published data on Hg evasion in the entire Mediterranean area, thus confirming the suitability of the new model for Hg evasion simulations. Model computations performed for the Adriatic Sea resulted in levels of evasion approximately two times lower than previously estimated.