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QBO Influence on Polar Stratospheric Variability in the GEOS Chemistry-Climate ModelThe quasi-biennial oscillation modulates the strength of both the Arctic and Antarctic stratospheric vortices. Model and observational studies have found that the phase and characteristics of the quasi-biennial oscillation (QBO) contribute to the high degree of variability in the Arctic stratosphere in winter. While the Antarctic stratosphere is less variable, recent work has shown that Southern Hemisphere planetary wave driving increases in response to "warm pool" El Nino events that are coincident with the easterly phase of the QBO. These events hasten the breakup of the Antarctic polar vortex. The Goddard Earth Observing System (GEOS) chemistry-climate model (CCM) is now capable of generating a realistic QBO, due a new parameterization of gravity wave drag. In this presentation, we will use this new model capability to assess the influence of the QBO on polar stratospheric variability. Using simulations of the recent past, we will compare the modeled relationship between QBO phase and mid-winter vortex strength with the observed Holton-Tan relation, in both hemispheres. We will use simulations of the 21 St century to estimate future trends in the relationship between QBO phase and vortex strength. In addition, we will evaluate the combined influence of the QBO and El Nino/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on the timing of the breakup of the polar stratospheric vortices in the GEOS CCM. We will compare the influence of these two natural phenomena with trends in the vortex breakup associated with ozone recovery and increasing greenhouse gas concentrations.
Document ID
20100031244
Acquisition Source
Goddard Space Flight Center
Document Type
Abstract
Authors
Hurwitz, M. M.
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Oman, L. D.
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Li, F.
(Maryland Univ. Baltimore County Baltimore, MD, United States)
Slong, I.-S.
(Maryland Univ. Baltimore County Baltimore, MD, United States)
Newman, P. A.
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Nielsen, J. E.
(Science Systems and Applications, Inc. Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Date Acquired
August 25, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2010
Subject Category
Meteorology And Climatology
Meeting Information
Meeting: AMS 16th Conference on Middle Atmosphere
Location: Seattle, WA
Country: United States
Start Date: January 23, 2011
End Date: January 27, 2011
Sponsors: American Meteorological Society
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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