Silicate - Phosphorus Model For Mac

Silicate - Phosphorus Model is an application that allows you to study the ocean's biogeochemical cycle of phosphate.

The ocean is represented by a standard one-dimensional, two box model (Broecker, 1971). The two boxes resolve the ocean vertically into a surface layer (0 to 500m) and a deep layer (500 to 3720 m).

A constant amount of mixing between these two layers is parameterised to represent ocean overturning, upwelling and diffusion. Nutrient concentrations are modelled in both ocean layers.

Both nutrients are added to the ocean via riverine input (silicate additionally by aeolian deposition, hydrothermal processes and seafloor weathering), and removed via the sedimentation of biogenic material. Biology is represented here by two algal groups, which are modelled in the surface layer only.

Once group the diatoms, requires both silicate and phosphate from the ocean waters. The other algae require only phosphate from ocean waters. Since silicate use is believed to convey an energetic advantage the other algae are slightly disadvantaged, and this is reflected in the model by a slightly lower maximum growth rate.