Abstract
Abstract The mass circulation of the zonally averaged global circulation is investigated in isobaric and isentropic coordinates through the use of a FGGE Level IIIa data set. The isobaric mass circulation during the First GARP Global Experiment is consistent with previous results, i.e., direct Hadley cells in low latitudes and indirect Ferrel cells in midlatitudes of both hemispheres. Within the isentropic framework, the combination of a geostrophic mean mode of mass transport within the baroclinic wave structure of extratropical latitudes, and an ageostrophic mean mode in tropical latitudes, yields an isentropic mass circulation spanning the hemisphere. The asymmetric structure of midlatitude baroclinic waves provides the degree of freedom for a geostrophic mode of mass transport that is fundamental to the direct Hadley-type circulation in isentropic coordinates. This direct Hadley-type circulation is explicitly linked to heat sources and sinks on a planetary scale. The diabatic heating estimated from th...
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
