Abstract:

Sea ice density is an important variable of sea ice physics and climate models, and it is key parameter for the retrieval of sea ice thickness from satellite altimeters. Physical investigations of Arctic sea ice have been conducted during many scientific expeditions; however, in situ measurements of sea ice density acquired in recent years still require further sorting and analysis. In this context, we collected 15 years’ data of Arctic sea ice density. We analyzed the variability of sea ice density, calculated sea ice thickness, based on the hydrostatic equation with in situ sea ice density after applying Kriging interpolation, and discussed the influence of sea ice density on sea ice thickness retrieved via satellite altimetry. Results showed that the annual mean sea ice density varied from 750 to 950 kg·m-³ during from 2000 to 2015. From January to September, the monthly mean sea ice density tended to decrease, and it generally decreased with latitude during June–September. Comparative analysis revealed it is more suitable to use sea ice density after data interpolation than to use a fixed constant density for sea ice thickness retrievals. Sorting and analysis of Arctic in situ sea ice density could provide a reference for further research on Arctic sea ice and climate change.

Key words: sea ice density, in situ, variation analyses, sea ice thickness