Editorial Type:
Article
Article Type:
Research Article

Modal and Non-Modal Baroclinic Waves

Brian Farrell Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 9EW, U.K.

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Print Publication:
15 Feb 1984
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1175/1520-0469(1984)041<0668:MANMBW>2.0.CO;2
Page(s):
668–673
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Abstract

Solution of the initial-value problem for the Eady model is presented. In the presence of boundaries, normal mode waves as well as non-modal waves exist. Energy extracted from the mean flow during the initial development of a perturbation is found to excite the persistent normal modes. It is suggested that this process may be important to cyclogenesis and in providing energy to neutral or near-neutral normal modes. In particular, the Petterssen criterion for cyclogenesis is clarified.

Abstract

Solution of the initial-value problem for the Eady model is presented. In the presence of boundaries, normal mode waves as well as non-modal waves exist. Energy extracted from the mean flow during the initial development of a perturbation is found to excite the persistent normal modes. It is suggested that this process may be important to cyclogenesis and in providing energy to neutral or near-neutral normal modes. In particular, the Petterssen criterion for cyclogenesis is clarified.

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