Abstract
Mean dissipation rates of kinetic energy in the lower stratosphere are estimated from data obtained with an instrumented, superpressure, constant-level balloon launched to measure the vertical wind shear at 200 mb. The flight record shows that while the balloon was located above a mountainous region localized patches of turbulence were encountered. The record is divided into 20 periods. The structure function is calculated over each period and, under the hypothesis of an inertial subrange, the mean dissipation is in turn estimated over each period. Our calculations indicate that the mean dissipation rate of kinetic energy can vary to a great extent over distances as short as a few tens of kilometers. Thus, when the shear layer breaks down, the mean dissipation rate can be 10 times higher than just before or after the event. It can also be 100 times higher within moderately intense clear air turbulence patches than in very weak intensity turbulence zones. These results show the sporadic nature of mixing processes in the lower stratosphere associated with shearing instabilities.
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.
