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Radiosonde observations of large-amplitude gravity waves in the lower and middle stratosphere

Journal Article · · Journal of Geophysical Research; (United States)
;  [1]
  1. UK Meteorological Office, Bracknell (England)
Radiosondes ascending near to mountainous areas in the United Kingdom occasionally encounter very large-amplitude gravity waves in the stratosphere. These ascents are characterized by large perturbations in the temperature ({approximately}5K) and vertical velocity (2-10 m s{sup {minus}1}) on vertical scales of about 2 km. Some of the profiles suggest a large vertical flux of horizontal momentum (order 1 N m{sup {minus}2}). Examples of these waves are illustrated, and the situations in which they are observed are described. Simple linear wave theory has been used to diagnose many of the important wave properties.
OSTI ID:
5205653
Journal Information:
Journal of Geophysical Research; (United States), Journal Name: Journal of Geophysical Research; (United States) Vol. 95:D12; ISSN 0148-0227; ISSN JGREA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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