Mixed Layer Depth (MLD)

Mixed-layer depth marks the base of the surface mixed layer, commonly defined by a density change from the surface of 0.03 kg/m^3 or a temperature change of about 0.2 degrees Celsius. It controls the heat capacity that buffers sea surface temperature, the depth phytoplankton are mixed through relative to the euphotic zone, and the volume ventilated by winter convection. Climatologies such as the de Boyer Montegut product map it globally.