Research in Atmospheric Dynamics

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"Research in Atmospheric Dynamics" Under this award, the principal investigator will pursue studies in two areas of atmospheric dynamics. The first involves a theoretical study of the formation of storms or cyclones in the lee of mountain ranges, or lee cyclogenesis. Two aspects of cyclogenesis will be examined in detail: (1) the interaction between the incipient disturbance and the mountain barrier and (2) the role of jet streaks as the impetus for the developing storm. This study represents an extension of some of Dr. Bannon's previous work. The second research area involves a reexamination of one aspect of a major conceptual model of atmospheric dynamics, the quasi-geostrophic theory. This theory employs certain approximations to the equations of motion which are applicable to large-scale atmospheric motion. The principal investigator plans to test the validity of a new form of the equations which better represents conditions at the lower boundary of numerical models. Both of these studies are important for improving our understanding of large-scale atmospheric motion.