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A spectral energetics analysis of atmospheric blockingThe spectral energetics of two blocking case studies from the winter of 1978-79 are calculated. One case occurred over the North Atlantic and the other over the North Pacific. The temporal evolution and geographical distribution of the energetics of the planetary-scale (zonal harmonic wavenumbers 1-4) and the intermediate-scale (wavenumbers 5-10) wave ensembles are examined to identify the physical mechanisms important in the blocking process. The Atlantic block was forced by the nonlinear interaction of intense baroclinic cyclone-scale waves with barotropic, ultralong waves. The Pacific blocking resulted from the baroclinic amplification of planetary-scale waves. In addition, at least two necessary conditions are required for the development of blocking. First, one of the forcing mechanisms must be in operation, and second, the phase of the antecedent planetary-scale waves must be such that the forcing mechanism can amplify them into a blocking pattern. In each of the cases studied, the blocking developed downstream of intense intermediate- or large-scale cyclogenesis.
Document ID
19820062959
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Hansen, A. R.
(Iowa State Univ. of Science and Technology Ames, IA, United States)
Chen, T.-C.
(Iowa State University of Science and Technology, Ames, IA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 10, 2013
Publication Date
September 1, 1982
Publication Information
Publication: Monthly Weather Review
Volume: 110
Subject Category
Meteorology And Climatology
Accession Number
82A46494
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAG5-104
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-5339
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSF ATM-79-15800
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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