Seasonal mixed layer temperature and salt balances in the Banda Sea observed by an Argo float

Abstract For the first time, processes controlling variations of mixed layer temperature (MLT) and salinity (MLS) in Banda Sea are quantified using data from a single Argo float combination with satellite reanalysis outputs August 2017 to 2019. This augments previous studies that utilized ocean model only. We document presence barrier quantify roles air-sea heat mass exchanges, horizontal advection, vertical entrainment seasonal variability MLT MLS. find gains losses at interface main contributor warming cooling MLT. Seasonal changes MLS driven by advection low water rather than freshwater fluxes precipitation evaporation. is particularly case during late northwest monsoon transition period February April when advected eastward Java into Sea.