Experimental evidence for solitary waves in the middle atmosphere
- Max-Planck-Inst. fuer Aeronomie, Katlenburg-Lindau (West Germany)
Solitary waves are nonperiodic disturbances which travel over long distances at high velocities without changing their shape. Solitary waves are a special form of gravity waves which interact nonlinearly with other waves and whose velocity depends upon their amplitude: the high the amplitude, the higher their speed. The contour of a solitary wave follows a sech function, and the wave can travel in any direction with respect to the propagation of other waves or flow. Because of its high velocity it tends to overtake other wave motions and interact with them. When the solitary wave has passed, the original flow is restored. The only indication that the superposition of the two wave motions was nonlinear is a phase shift in the wave crests of the original waves which is seen in foil chaff tracks as an offset. These properties of solitary waves can be used for their identification. Certain types of transient irregularities seen in results of foil cloud measurements in the mesosphere are consistent with the properties of solitary waves.
- OSTI ID:
- 5256544
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Geophysical Research; (United States), Journal Name: Journal of Geophysical Research; (United States) Vol. 96:A9; ISSN 0148-0227; ISSN JGREA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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