One-dimensional spectral analysis of the eddy available potential energy growth over a limited region

Abstract

The paper describes development processes on their energetic basis. A special emphasis is given to the role of the eddy available potential energy, A_e arising out of zonal available potential energy, A_Z. The process of energy transition C(A_Z A_e) can be estimated in the wave number domain by means of a cospectral function f_n(H,T) of the isobaric surface height H and the temperature T. IN cases of baroclinic instability prevalence, the f_n(H,T), if determined along a cross-sectional line over a limited region, may help the forecast of a given eddy scale development, relevant for that region.