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Kelvin waves in total column ozoneTropical Kelvin waves have been observed previously in ozone mixing ratio data from the SBUV (Solar Backscatter Ultraviolet) and LIMS (Limb Infrared Monitor of the Stratosphere) instruments on board the Nimbus-7 satellite. The present study investigates Kelvin wave features in total column ozone, using version 6 data from the Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS) instrument (also on Nimbus-7). Results show eastward-propagating zonal waves 1-2 with periods approx. 5-15 days, amplitudes approx. 3-5 Dobson Units (1-2% of the time mean), and latitudinal symmetry typical of Kelvin waves. The analyses and a linear model in this study suggest that the primary source of the perturbations is slow Kelvin waves in the lower-to-middle stratosphere. Maximum Kelvin wave signatures occur in conjunction with westward lower-to-middle stratospheric equatorial zonal winds (a quasi-biennial oscillation (QBO) wind modulation effect). The significance of these results is that the TOMS data are shown to be useful for investigations with global coverage of a major component of tropical stratospheric dynamics, Kelvin waves. The TOMS data set with its excellent coverage and high quality should be useful in validating model studies in the relatively data sparse and dynamically difficult tropical region.
Document ID
19950032359
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Ziemke, J. R.
(Iowa State Univ. Ames, IA, United States)
Stanford, J. L.
(Iowa State Univ. Ames, IA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 16, 2013
Publication Date
January 15, 1994
Publication Information
Publication: Geophysical Research Letters
Volume: 21
Issue: 2
ISSN: 0094-8276
Subject Category
Geophysics
Accession Number
95A63958
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAG5-1519
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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