A note on the derivation of the quasi-geostrophic potential vorticity equation

Journal article

The derivation of the quasi-geostrophic potential vorticity equation of mathematical meteorology is usually done using fairly sophisticated techniques of perturbation theory, but stops short of deriving self-consistently the stratification parameter of the mean atmospheric state. In this note we suggest how this should be done within the confines of the theory, and as a consequence we raise the possibility that the atmosphere could become globally unstable, with dramatic consequences. © 2011 Taylor and Francis.

Authors: Fowler, A

• Publication status: Published
• Journal: GEOPHYSICAL AND ASTROPHYSICAL FLUID DYNAMICS
• Volume: 105
• Issue: 2-3
• Pages: 340-350
• Publication date: 2011-01-01
• DOI: 10.1080/03091929.2010.531719
• EISSN: 1029-0419
• ISSN: 0309-1929
• Language: English
• Keywords: Quasi-geostrophic potential vorticity equation; Day after tomorrow