Dynamical Computation of the Equatorial Current System of the Pacific, with Special Application to the Equatorial Undercurrent

Summary The currents near the equator are treated by solving the dynamical equations for the steady-state involving terms of Coriolis force, pressure gradient, and horizontal and vertical mixing. The coefficients of horizontal and vertical mixing are estimated at 108 and 102 c.g.s. respectively and are constant everywhere. The distribution of mean wind-stress and mean pressure are computed from observed data. The result shows an eastward current below the surface near the equator, and it seems to give an explanation of the equatorial undercurrent.