DEFINITION OF PYCNOCLINE

A steep density gradient in a body of water, or

the layer that a strong vertical density gradient occurs within.

Changes in salinity and/or temperature cause the changes

in density and are referred to as the halocline or thermocline,

respectively. In the oceans the pycnocline is about a kilometer

thick with its top approximately corresponding to the

50°F (10°C) temperature contour, and its base corresponding

to the 39.2°F (4°C) contour. The pycnocline is found below

the surface layer or mixed zone and overlies the deep zone

where changes in temperature, salinity, and density are less

dramatic. The pycnocline is a very stable region in the

oceans, rarely affected by movements and seasonal changes

in the surface zone. Waters below the pycnocline in the deep

zone primarily move along the density gradients, and do not

penetrate the pycnocline either. Internal waves may form

along the pycnocline surface, since it is a surface with a density

contrast, similar to the ocean/air surface. These waves

are induced by currents flowing along the base of the pycnocline

in the deep zone.

See also OCEANOGRAPHY.

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