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Effects of different approximations in 2D-front-scale models on cross frontal structures (weakv ag -case)

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Summary

Nonlinear interactions and feedbacks in frontal dynamics are studied with two-dimensional quasigeostrophic, semigeostrophic and primitive equation models for given cases of moderate surface cold fronts. According to the degree of approximation these feedbacks are in effect as a result of geostrophic and ageostrophic advection configuring the further frontal development and the associated energy-transfers between the geostrophic and the ageostrophic scales. The most prominent feedback processes, including the feedback connected with the ageostrophic along-front windv ag , are theoretically reviewed. In cases of smallv ag values, their effects on form and horizontal scale of the frontal secondary circulation are discussed by comparing the products of different model versions and the cross-frontal spectral analysis of the ageostrophic wind fields. To scrutinize the role played by thev ag -field, further experiments were based on a hierarchy ofv ag -substitutes parameterized by the momentum equation of the crossfrontal winddu/dt=fv ag . Tentative results show the tendency towards very localized effects.

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  1. A. Gabriel & H. -D. Schilling

    Present address: Meteorological Institute, University of Bonn, Auf dem Hügel 20, D-W-5300, Bonn 1, Germany

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    1. A. Gabriel
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    2. H. -D. Schilling
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    Gabriel, A., Schilling, H.D. Effects of different approximations in 2D-front-scale models on cross frontal structures (weakv ag -case). Meteorl. Atmos. Phys. 51, 1–24 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01080877

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    • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01080877

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