Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 11/17/2011 - 19:06
Forums
Winter Sampling

In the CTD casts, what is the expected depth(s) of the deepest salinity layer? I am unsure which water mass it would be referred to in the area in which you are working.

Thu, 11/17/2011 - 20:34

Chantelle Rose

All of the CTD casts that we have completed since entering the Bering have shown a well mixed water column. The water here is relatively shallow - about 40 meters. The water mass in which we are working is referred to as Winter Water. As saltwater freezes, the salt is extruded so the water directly under the sea ice is saltier. Because the water is shallow and well mixed, we have not see any difference in salinity. GREAT question!