A dynamic model for strong vortices over topography on a β plane
Journal
Advances in Engineering Mechanics Reflections and Outlooks: In Honor of Theodore Y-T Wu
Pages
669-680
Date Issued
2005
Author(s)
Abstract
In this study, we propose a simple dynamic model for predicting tracks of strong cyclonic vortices over topography on a β-plane. The dynamic model bears a kinematic relationship that reveals a sophisticated dependence of the velocity component on the local gradient of the topography, effected by the vortex Rossby number, planetary vorticity gradient (the β-effect) and topographic vorticity gradient as well as other effects. Calculations of strong vortices over a bell-shaped mountain with the dynamic model reveal interesting track patterns of cyclonic motion. The results of the dynamic model are also confirmed by solving a more detailed shallow water model; the vortex tracks obtained from these two approaches show excellent agreement.
SDGs
Type
book part