Which process restricts nutrient upwelling within subtropical ocean gyres under stable stratification?

💡 Explanation

When stable stratification and subtropical positioning coincide, Ekman transport convergence occurs because surface winds create convergent currents, pushing surface water downwards and preventing nutrient-rich deep water from upwelling. Therefore, downwelling restricts nutrients, rather than increasing thermocline depth, intensified currents or reduced gradients, which would assist in upwelling.

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