Depth variation of currents in the wind-generated Ekman layer
in a deep ocean situation
(dE2 <<
H,
constant eddy coefficient) for the northern
hemisphere, assuming a southerly wind.
The situation in the southern hemisphere is
the mirror image with respect to the wind direction.
Current vectors are shown from the surface down in increments of 1/10th
of Ekman layer depth (labelled
DE in the figure).
Adapted from Neumann and Pierson (1966),
based on Ekman (1905).
© 1996 M. Tomczak
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