Atmospheric and Ocean Dynamics of Water Worlds

Citation

de Oliveira Lobo, Ana Helena (2022) Atmospheric and Ocean Dynamics of Water Worlds. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/skh2-tp72. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:07262021-194514668

Abstract

This dissertation explores the fundamental dynamics that control atmospheric and ocean circulation on water worlds. These planets are defined by the presence of liquid water, which is a minimum requirement for life as we know it, making them compelling targets in the search for extraterrestrial life. This work begins by examining the atmospheric features and surface climates of Earth-like planets with surface liquid water (Chapters I-III). These atmospheres are driven by top-of-atmosphere radiative imbalance. To further our understanding of planetary climate and of the atmosphere’s dynamical controls, particularly with regards to seasonal behavior, we examine the circulation, energy budget, and hydrological cycle responses to changes in shortwave and longwave radiative forcings. This dissertation also explores icy worlds (Chapters IV-V), a type of water world where a liquid water ocean hides beneath a substantial icy shell. Processes occurring at the ocean boundaries can shape the circulation dynamics, stratification, and subsequent heat and salt distributions in the ocean interior. This work presents a new model for exploring these oceans, focusing on ocean-ice interactions and freshwater forcings on Enceladus.

Thesis Files