Laboratory and Theoretical Studies of the Effects of Parameter Variations on Flow over Topography

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9318137 Pfeffer The principal investigators will conduct an investigation into the behavior of stationary and transient waves in the atmosphere through a series of laboratory experiments with a rotating annulus. This research represents a continuation of work with the annulus which is complemented by diagnostic and theoretical analyses. In particular, the PIs will explore the effects of the basic state potential vorticity gradient and latent heat release on wave behavior as well as the fate of topographically-induced midlatitude waves as they encounter the tropics with its different flow regime (reflection or absorption). In conducting the laboratory experiments, the PIs will test new techniques for creating the potential vorticity gradients and for simulating latent heat release and wave absorption at the so-called critical line. These experiments, combined with the diagnostic and modeling studies, should provide insights into still unresolved questions about planetary scale atmospheric wave behavior. ***