Oceanographic models and processes
Much of the research conducted by the Oceanographic Research Unit is based on a number of models. These models need to be continuously developed in order for the unit's research to remain at the forefront. At the same time, it is important that the models are well-functioning and validated. This is the focus of the research area ‘Oceanographic models and processes’.
In the research area of Oceanographic Models and Processes, we focus on the following models:
- 3-dimensional ocean circulation models linked to biogeochemical models, such as NEMO-SCOBI.
- 1-dimensional basin models along the Swedish coast, such as the Coastal Zone Model.
- Coupled models of atmosphere-ice-waves-ocean, for example NEMO4-HCLIM-HYPE.
- Dispersion models, for example applications of OpenDrift.
In addition, we focus on various processes and analytical frameworks:
- Mixing from eddies and small-scale processes
- Upwelling
- Inflow dynamics
- Water mass transformatio
- Parameterisation of components within the blue economy
- Bias adjustment
This research area is closely linked to issues and development needs within SMHI's investigation and climate services.
Current focus areas for research and development
How will the salinity of the sea change in a future climate? Climate projections fall under the research area of Marine Climate, but in order for these to be carried out, it is important to have a regional model that shows the salinity of the Baltic Sea with high precision.
Which models are best suited to different issues? Are nested or unstructured models best for enabling higher resolution, especially in coastal areas? The models may also be of interest for various applications in the open sea, such as in connection with offshore wind power or aquaculture.
The complexity of eddies: How should we handle the transition from eddy-permitting to eddy-resolving, steep topography at higher resolution, mixing and friction caused by topography, internal waves, eddies and numerical mixing?
How can we optimise marine monitoring for climate, environmental monitoring and forecasting?
