Generation of intermediate water vortices in a rotating stratified fluid: Laboratory model

Abstract

We hypothesize that a formation mechanism of anticyclonic eddies (lenses) is the outflow of intermediate waters down the canyons of the continental shelf. We reproduced in the laboratory the horizontal injection of fluid into the rotating stratified surroundings at the equilibrium density level. The experiments demonstrate that such an injection forms an anticyclonic eddy. Measurements of the velocity field show that the core of the eddy is almost axisymmetric and is in solid body rotation. The periphery of the eddy is formed by the jet flow. Cyclonic satellites were also observed at the periphery of the eddy. The main features of the laboratory flow are consistent with those of the “young” eddy observed recently in the Gulf of Cadiz.