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Instability of non-zonal baroclinic flows - Multiple-scale analysisThe linear instability of a non-zonal flow can be reduced to an eigenvalue-eigenfunction problem, governed by a nonseparable partial differential equation (Niehaus, 1980). Approximate solutions, found by the method of multiple scales, are derived here and compared with earlier results found using a spectral method. The amplitude maxima are correctly located. The zonal variations of local wavenumber and of amplitude are qualitatively correct, but not sufficiently extreme. Because the method is oversensitive to local conditions, and less sensitive to global constraints, this comparison provides theoretical limits to the possibility of parameterizing transient eddies in terms of the local time mean state of the atmosphere. The method can be extended easily to flows with more realistic vertical structure.
Document ID
19810059482
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Niehaus, M. C. W.
(Harvard University Cambridge, MA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 11, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 1981
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of the Atmospheric Sciences
Volume: 38
Subject Category
Meteorology And Climatology
Accession Number
81A43886
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGL-22-007-228
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSF ATM-78-20156
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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