A multiwave model of the quasi-biennial oscillation

Abstract

A simple one-dimensional model of the quasi-biennial oscillation is discussed. We consider a large number of vertically propagating internal waves interacting simultaneously with the mean flow. Effects of both wave damping and critical level absorption are included, but wave-wave interaction is neglected. The effects of momentum advection due to the Hadley circulation are also parameterized. We find that a "continuous' wave spectrum forces mean flow oscillations in a manner quite similar to a "discrete' two-wave spectrum. But the factors that control the period and amplitude of the oscillations, in the case of a continuous spectrum, seem to be quite different. -from Author