Abstract
Due to the complexity of monsoon systems and random behaviors of isotope tracers, conventional methods are not adequate for uncovering detailed information about monsoon activities from typically limited precipitation isotope data. We developed a new approach based on the entropy theory to analyze such data with a focus on the monsoon systems in China, dealing with the complexity of these systems and data deficiency. Using precipitation isotope data from 42 selected stations in and around China within the GNIP network, we computed entropies associated with D and 18O. These entropies were found to relate linearly to each other with a proportionality factor close to unity. The spatial variations of the D and 18O entropy in the study area revealed the origins, extents and pathways of the Chinese monsoon systems, as well as their interactions. While further investigation is needed at a greater (global) scale, this study has demonstrated how the entropy theory enables an in-depth analysis of precipitation isotope data to trace the pathway and determine the range of a monsoon system.
Highlights
Conventional methods based on the Rayleigh fractionation model
The East Asian monsoon system is complicated by various factors including ElNiño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), surface sea temperature, Eurasian snow cover, downward propagation of stratospheric anomalies associated with the polar vortex, and atmospheric internal processes such as Arctic Oscillation (AO), North Atlantic Oscillation and planetary wave activities[19,20,21]
The climate in China is controlled by two seasonal monsoons, namely, the winter monsoon and summer monsoons consisting of Indian monsoon and East Asian monsoon[32,33] (Fig. 1)
Summary
Conventional methods based on the Rayleigh fractionation model. This uncertainty problem is further escalated due to the complexity of the monsoon system. An analysis of the precipitation isotope data based on these entropy behaviors would help to trace the monsoon systems. We aim to develop such a method for analyzing precipitation isotope data to study the monsoon systems in China, dealing with the complexity of these systems and data deficiency. This paper aims to develop and apply a new method based on the entropy theory to examine the random behavior of precipitation isotopes and explore the monsoon systems in China using long-term isotope data from 42 selected GNIP stations. This is the first time that the entropy theory is applied to interpret the precipitation isotope data
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
