Optimizing Observational Arrays for Biogeochemistry in the Tropical Pacific by Estimating Correlation Lengths

Abstract:

Ocean biogeochemistry is impacted by changes in the ocean climate, such as increases in acidity and temperature. To monitor these changes, an array of floats fitted with biogeochemical sensors (BGC-Argo) is being deployed throughout the ocean. However, the biogeochemistry of the Tropical Pacific is poorly observed, leading to greater uncertainty in models and of the processes that govern the region’s biogeochemistry. BGC-Argo floats are beginning to be deployed in the region. This research seeks to maximize the information captured by these floats by quantifying the correlation length-scales of carbon and oxygen concentration in a state estimate model. Our results inform deployment strategies that best observe the large-scale biogeochemical variability in the Tropical Pacific.