Open AccessRadiogenic isotopes: New tools help reconstruct paleocean circulation and erosional input
Author(s) -
Frank M.,
Davies G. R.,
ClaudeIvanaj C.,
Hofmann A. W.
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
eos, transactions american geophysical union
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.316
H-Index - 86
eISSN - 2324-9250
pISSN - 0096-3941
DOI - 10.1029/01eo00040
Subject(s) - glacial period , geology , thermohaline circulation , north atlantic deep water , oceanography , ocean current , pleistocene , shutdown of thermohaline circulation , interglacial , northern hemisphere , younger dryas , aeolian processes , atmospheric circulation , climatology , paleontology
Ocean and atmosphere circulation and continental weathering regimes have undergone great changes over thousands of years as well as tens of millions of years. During the glacial stages of the Pleistocene, ocean circulation was generally more sluggish and deep water circulation in the Atlantic had a shallower flow. At the same time, weathering on the continents was enhanced by glacial erosion, particularly in high northern latitudes, which increased the input of erosional detritus into the ocean. In addition, atmospheric pressure gradients were larger, leading to higher wind speeds and increased supply of aeolian dust to the ocean. Prior to the onset of Northern Hemisphere glaciation and pronounced glacial/interglacial cyclicity at ∼3 m.ya., global climate was warmer than at present. There is also evidence for a more vigorous thermohaline circulation during the early Pliocene.