Single-particle statistics in the southern Gulf of Mexico

Abstract

Single-particle statistics of a large data set of surface drifters released in the southern Gulf of Mexico are presented. The study is focused on the estimation of Lagrangian scales, the calculation of absolute dispersion and the analysis of probability density functions of velocity records. Diffusivity values based on the Lagrangian scales range from 6.9 to 8.8 107 cm2/s. The probability distributions display a non-Gaussian shape with extended tails. It is shown that the long tails are mainly associated with the Campeche gyre (an intense cyclonic circulation frequently formed in the region) and, to a lesser extent, with a flow along the western margin of the basin. The results are discussed in the light of previous studies on ocean dispersion reporting Gaussian and nonGaussian distributions in other regions.