The vertical age profile in sea ice: Theory and numerical results

► Based on the age theory in ocean modeling, we introduce a three-dimensional ice age. ► The age of a sea ice particle is the time elapsed since its creation. ► We focus on the vertical ice age profile with analytical and numerical solutions. ► Neglecting ice dynamics, the ice column can be decomposed in annual growth layers. ► In the Arctic, no unique age-thickness relationship is found.