The ocean's mixed layer is the near-surface layer homogenized by wind stress and convective overturning. Its depth varies regionally, becoming exceptionally deep in areas of intense winter cooling and deep convective overturning, most notably in the Northern North Atlantic (e.g., Labrador Sea, Greenland-Iceland-Norwegian Seas), where it can reach depths of 1000–2000 m and contributes to North Atlantic Deep Water formation.
The Northern North Atlantic experiences some of the strongest surface cooling and buoyancy loss on Earth during winter, driven by cold, dry continental air masses...
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