Instructor: Prof. Gregory Hakim (685.2439) (www) Department of Atmospheric Sciences; University of Washington
Description:This course provides an introduction to the fluid dynamics of the extratropical atmosphere. Our main objective is to derive a simplified set of equations that capture the dynamics on these scales, while providing a foundation for physical understanding. Potential vorticity provides a useful framework to link physical understanding of theory and observations. The simplified equations are applied to: Rossby-wave propagation, baroclinic and barotropic instability, and nonlinear dynamics (turbulence).
Prerequisites: ATMS509 or OCEAN 512.
Class meets: MWF 12:30-1:20 p.m. in ATG 310C."disruptions": 10, 12, 24, 26, 28 April.
Useful texts:
An Introduction to Dynamic Meteorology, by J. R. Holton
Atmosphere--Ocean Dynamics, by A. E. Gill
Geophysical Fluid Dynamics, by J. Pedlosky
Syllabus:
(1) Review: Navier--Stokes, energy, & mass eqns.; coordinates; basic scaling.
(2) Simplification to the f-plane primitive equations (PE).
(3) Properties of linear PE modes (Rossby & gravity waves).
(4) Derivation of the QG equations (PV, w, & height equations).
(5) Potential vorticity dynamics (conservation & inversion).
(6) Baroclinic & barotropic instability (normal modes of plane-parallel flow).
(7) Some aspects of ``generalized'' stability (non-modal growth).
(8) Nonlinear dynamics and turbulence (exact solutions & cascades).
Evaluation:
Quizes: 35%.
Homework: 30%.
Final Exam: 35%.