Preprints
https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-2696
https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-2696
05 Nov 2024
 | 05 Nov 2024
Status: this preprint is open for discussion.

A Mathematical Model of Microbially-Induced Convection in Sea Ice

Noa Kraitzman, Jean-David Grattepanche, Robert Sanders, and Isaac Klapper

Abstract. Through its role as a an interface between ocean and atmosphere, sea ice is important both physically and biologically. We propose here that the resident microbial community can influence the structure of sea ice, particularly near its ocean interface, by effectively lowering the local freezing point via an osmolytic mechanism. The lower freezing point can enhance fluid flow, linking a bottom, convective ice layer with the underlying ocean, resulting in improved nutrient uptake and byproduct removal. A mathematical model based on a previously suggested abiotic one dimensional simplification of mushy ice fluid dynamics is used to illustrate, and supporting measurements of freezing point depression by lab grown sea ice-associated organisms are provided.

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Noa Kraitzman, Jean-David Grattepanche, Robert Sanders, and Isaac Klapper

Status: open (until 09 Jan 2025)

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Noa Kraitzman, Jean-David Grattepanche, Robert Sanders, and Isaac Klapper
Noa Kraitzman, Jean-David Grattepanche, Robert Sanders, and Isaac Klapper

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Short summary
We propose here that the resident microbial community can influence the structure of sea ice, particularly near the ocean interface, by lowering the local freezing point through production of, effectively, antifreeze compounds. The result is improved environmental conditions for growth and, possibly, changes to heat transport through the ice. A mathematical model together with laboratory measurements are used to illustrate and support the hypothesis.