On the Interpretation of the Diagnostic Quasi-Geostrophic Omega Equation

Abstract

Abstract The usual interpretation of the quasi-geostrophic omega equation can be ambiguous, and an alternative but complementary approach is suggested. In the middle troposphere, upward motion is shown to he the consequence of the cyclonic advection of vorticity by the thermal wind. This relates to several empirical-dynamical rules of synoptic meteorology.