This proposal is to conduct theoretical studies on two physical oceanographic topics: salt fingers, and ocean circulation. Salt fingers occur in the ocean due to the differing magnitudes of salt and heat diffusion. They have been observed frequently, and this study will address models of the physics. In addition, models of the ocean circulation, particularly western boundary currents will be investigated. Current models attempt to account for non-linear and inertial effects, but have difficulty obtaining consistent results. This study will address layered models of the circulation.
