Unstable baroclinic waves beyond quasigeostrophic theory

Abstract

Quasigeostrophic theory is an approximation of the primitive equations in which the dynamics of geostrophically balanced motions are described by the advection of potential vorticity. Quasigeostrophic theory also represents a leading-order theory in the sense that it is derivable from the primitive equations in the asymptotic limit of zero Rossby number. Building upon quasigeostrophic theory, and the centrality of potential vorticity, the authors have recently developed a systematic asymptotic framework from which balanced, next-order corrections in Rossby number can be obtained. The approach is illustrated here through numerical solutions pertaining to unstable waves on baroclinic jets. The numerical solutions using the full primitive equations compare well with numerical solutions to our equations with accuracy one order beyond quasigeostrophic theory; in particular, the inherent asymmetry between cyclones and anticyclones is captured. Explanations of the latter and the associated asymmetry of the warm and cold fronts are given using simple extensions of quasigeostrophic-potential-vorticity thinking to next order.