Question

How might rings influence the intensity of storm systems over the ocean?

Answer 1

Rings or warm-core and cold-core eddies influence the intensity of storm system over the ocean because of how these rings have different measurements and impacts. Cold-core rings have diameters of about 185 mi and, viewed from above, rotate in a counterclockwise direction. While cold-core rings can be more difficult for satellites to track because their originally cool surface waters are warmed by absorption of solar radiation, which can make them almost indistinguishable thermally from surrounding surface waters. On the north side where the warm-core ring, these rings are typically 100 to 200 km (60 to 120 mi) across. These rings enclose warm waters from the Sargasso Sea located to the south and east of the Gulf Stream; hence, they are called warm-core rings. Viewed from above, these warm-core rings rotate in a clockwise direction. Because of the strong contrast in sea-surface temperatures, they are readily detected on infrared satellite images. Warm-core rings are also readily distinguished from the surrounding surface waters by their relatively low levels of biological production.