Variations of the kinetic energy of large-scale eddy currents in relation to the jet stream

Abstract

The kinetic energy of large-scale eddy currents at 300 and 500 mb was computed and analyzed for the period January 1, 1950, through December 31, 1957. It was found that there is a region of maximum eddy kinetic energy directly associated with the jet stream and located to the north and east of the jet stream core. Analysis of the monthly position and intensity of the maximum eddy and total kinetic energies shows that the distance between the center of maximum eddy kinetic energy and the core of the jet stream depends upon the strength of the jet stream and that maximum displacement occurs in the winter months and minimum displacement in the summer months. From consideration of the meridional circulation of the atmosphere, the convergence of the poleward transport of kinetic energy, and the production of kinetic energy, the distribution of eddy kinetic energy in relation to the jet stream is examined.