VI
A coupled mode of decadal time scales, centered over the North Pacific
in which the interactions of the atmosphere and the ocean are essential
to the mode has been suggested, with the time scale set by ocean planetary wave propagation. Recent model results have shown the possibility
that the thermohaline circulation can undergo substantial oscillations on
decadal to millenial time scales. Apparently the atmosphere plays no active role but would have to adjust to changes in oceanic heat transport and
consequently sea surface temperature. Only those mechanisms involving
the ocean are likely to lead to some predictability, but this has yet to be
demonstrated.
To provide a coherent structure to the course, principal lecturers developed their topics in depth over a series of lectures. Specific applications
were further developed by supporting lecturers. We would like to thank all
the lecturers who gave a stimulating series of lectures which are recorded
in this volume.
Primary support for the Institute was provided by NATO, through the
Special Programme on The Science of Global Environmental Change. Additional support was provided by the European Union and by CNRS,
France. This support is gratefully acknowledged. We also thank Shona
Anderson, Arne Biastoch and Nils Rix who converted the manuscripts into
Latex, and a number of reviewers for helpful comments.
David Anderson
Jiirgen Willebrand
April 1996
A coupled mode of decadal time scales, centered over the North Pacific
in which the interactions of the atmosphere and the ocean are essential
to the mode has been suggested, with the time scale set by ocean planetary wave propagation. Recent model results have shown the possibility
that the thermohaline circulation can undergo substantial oscillations on
decadal to millenial time scales. Apparently the atmosphere plays no active role but would have to adjust to changes in oceanic heat transport and
consequently sea surface temperature. Only those mechanisms involving
the ocean are likely to lead to some predictability, but this has yet to be
demonstrated.
To provide a coherent structure to the course, principal lecturers developed their topics in depth over a series of lectures. Specific applications
were further developed by supporting lecturers. We would like to thank all
the lecturers who gave a stimulating series of lectures which are recorded
in this volume.
Primary support for the Institute was provided by NATO, through the
Special Programme on The Science of Global Environmental Change. Additional support was provided by the European Union and by CNRS,
France. This support is gratefully acknowledged. We also thank Shona
Anderson, Arne Biastoch and Nils Rix who converted the manuscripts into
Latex, and a number of reviewers for helpful comments.
David Anderson
Jiirgen Willebrand
April 1996