Solitary Waves in the Westerlies

Author:
  • RLRobert R. Long
    Robert R. Long
Open Access
Publisher website
Google Scholar
Abstract
This paper contains a solution for a solitary disturbance in a westerly current on a “β-plane” earth. The current varies slightly with latitude and the existence of the phenomenon depends on this variation. The disturbance has a mathematical resemblance to the solitary water wave of Scott Russell. It is a single ridge if the current increases with latitude, and a single trough if the current decreases with latitude. The speed of propagation depends on the amplitude. Abstract This paper contains a solution for a solitary disturbance in a westerly current on a “β-plane” earth. The current varies slightly with latitude and the existence of the phenomenon depends on this variation. The disturbance has a mathematical resemblance to the solitary water wave of Scott Russell. It is a single ridge if the current increases with latitude, and a single trough if the current decreases with latitude. The speed of propagation depends on the amplitude.