Model Validation
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The altimeter-derived upper-layer thickness can
determine the depth of the 9°C isotherm, which at 500 m depth
represents the location of the KE axis at the first crest.
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The 144°E meridian and the a-128 groundtrack
cross each other at 36° (dashed line).
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The altimeter-derived 9°C isotherm at 500 m on groundtrack
a-128 (black line) agrees well with the maximum
baroclinic transport estimated every 0.2° latitude along
the same ground track (contours) and with the
latitude of the 9°C isotherm at 500 m depth from the
hydrographic sections at 144°E (dots).
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The rms of the difference between the altimeter-derived and the
hydrographically-derived latitude of the
9°C isotherm at 500 m depth is 10 km.
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Moreover, variations of altimeter estimates agree with the
hydrographic observations.
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Similar results are found at 165°E.
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