Seminar

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) plays a main role in the climate system; any disturbance of its strength induces significant impacts. As a part of the global oceanic circulation, the AMOC redistributes heat, nutrients and salinity from low to high latitudes. Moreover, the AMOC regulates CO₂ concentration between deep ocean and atmosphere by deep water formation. Recent studies have shown a weakening of the AMOC since 1850, likely due to anthropogenic activities. The aim of this project is to quantify the regional variations of deep-water formation in the North Atlantic over the last 10.000 years and to link its effect on the climate. Sediment cores from the Atlantic Ocean will be used as climatic archives to reconstruct the strength of the deep-water formation in the past. To reconstruct oceanic parameters, we will use different isotopic signatures on foraminifera, δ¹⁸O analysis to generate a high-resolution age model, and δ¹⁵N analysis to reconstruct the depth of the mixed layers of the upper ocean. Additionally, trace elements (Mg, Sr, Mn) will be analysed on foraminifera to reconstruct the geochemical footprint of the water-masses. The expected results will provide a better understanding of the North Atlantic Ocean circulation during the Holocene period.

Additional information: Mr. Mériadec A.G. LE PABIC, lepabic.meriadec@gmail.com