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 via 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 evaluate the regional variations of deep-water formation in the North Atlantic over the last 11,700 years and to link its effect to 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 proxies such as the δ¹⁸O to reconstruct the sea surface temperature and salinity surface, δ¹⁵N analysis to reconstruct the depth of the mixed layers of the upper ocean. Additionally, trace elements (Mg, Ba, Sr) will be analysed on foraminifera to complete the isotopic measurements in order to reconstruct the water-masses evolution. 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, u3007783@connect.hku.hk