Summary
This paper presents SOCAT Version 3, a comprehensive, quality-controlled synthesis of global surface ocean CO₂ measurements comprising 14.7 million fCO₂ values from 3646 datasets. The update extends the temporal record from 2011 to 2014 and substantially increases data availability for 2005–2013, with improved quality documentation and automated range checking protocols. The dataset serves as a critical resource for quantifying ocean carbon sinks, monitoring ocean acidification trends, and validating coupled climate and biogeochemical models.
UK applicability
UK researchers and policymakers can use this dataset to assess coastal and regional ocean acidification patterns around the British Isles and to inform UK climate and marine policy. The improved quality control and automated upload protocols enhance the utility of SOCAT for UK-based ocean and climate monitoring programmes.
Key measures
Fugacity of carbon dioxide (fCO₂) in surface ocean waters; dataset quality control flags; measurement accuracy; temporal and spatial coverage of observations
Outcomes reported
The paper documents Version 3 of the Surface Ocean CO₂ Atlas (SOCAT), which compiles 14.7 million quality-controlled fugacity of carbon dioxide (fCO₂) measurements from 3646 datasets spanning 1957–2014. The dataset enables quantification of ocean carbon dioxide sinks, detection of ocean acidification, and evaluation of biogeochemical models.
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