Atmospheric Dynamics

This textbook covers meteorology and atmospheric sciences,including theoretical and numerical aspects,weather and climate,and geophysical fluid dynamics. It discusses fundamental concepts,mechanisms,and applications,with a focus on the atmospheric boundary layer,global atmospheric circulation,and essential concepts. It is suitable for undergraduate and graduate courses and researchers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 554 pages
Publication date: 05 March 2022
Publisher: Springer Fachmedien Wiesbaden

This comprehensive textbook serves as a valuable resource for students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in meteorology and atmospheric sciences, as well as for researchers engaged in theoretical and numerical studies of weather and climate or in the exploration of geophysical fluid dynamics. The treatment is designed to be concise, thorough, and self-contained, ensuring that all necessary concepts are introduced and that the reader receives clear guidance on all mathematical steps.

The book begins by deriving the equations of motion, which form the foundation for subsequent discussions. These equations are then applied to explore fundamental aspects of weather and climate. The focus shifts to the mechanisms behind vortical motions, commonly observed in daily weather maps. Shallow-water theory is introduced as a powerful tool for analyzing key concepts such as atmospheric waves and synoptic-scale vortices. Quasigeostrophic theory is described, providing insights into the occurrence and mechanisms of extratropical weather through the lens of baroclinic instability.

The specific properties of the atmospheric boundary layer are examined in detail, with a particular emphasis on the interplay between turbulence and mean flows. This is followed by a comprehensive examination of the global atmospheric circulation, highlighting its control by Rossby waves and gravity waves. At the same time, the reader is introduced to essential concepts that have practical applications in the field, including balance by geostrophic and hydrostatic equilibrium, the role of entropy and potential temperature, potential vorticity, the Kelvin theorem, instability theory, the Reynolds equations, Eliassen-Palm and pseudo-momentum flux, multi-scale asymptotics, WKB theory, wave action, the transformed Eulerian mean, critical layers, and wave refraction.

To enhance the understanding of these topics, the text is supplemented by appendices that provide detailed explanations of important mathematical concepts and further elaborations on the main text. Chapter summaries and review questions are also included to aid in comprehension and retention of the material.

In conclusion, this textbook offers a comprehensive and up-to-date treatment of meteorology and atmospheric sciences, catering to a wide range of audiences. Its concise yet comprehensive approach, coupled with clear explanations and ample mathematical support, makes it an invaluable resource for students, researchers, and practitioners in the field.

Weight: 1168g
Dimension: 240 x 168 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783662639405
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022