Theoretical Investigation of the Effects of Atmospheric Gravity Waves on the Hydroxyl Emissions of the Atmosphere.
Abstract
The effect of gravity waves on OH emission is investigated using a gravity-wave model valid for an inhomogeneous atmosphere and computed as well as semi-empirical data for the 'undisturbed' ozone and hydrogen profiles. The results show that (1) the magnitude of the response depends on the relative magnitudes and signatures of the vertical and horizontal wave-induced diffusion. Since in some regions the horizontal velocity field of the gravity wave can increase much more rapidly with height than the vertical field, horizontal diffusion even when there is a relatively sharp layer gradient; and (2) The structures in the OH profile produced by the gravity wave are in general but not always more pronounced below the intensity peak than above. The observed dark areas in OH emission can be produced by gravity waves with vertical wave length small compared with the half width of the intensity profile. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 31, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA083025
Entities
People
- Tai-fu Tuan
Organizations
- University of Cincinnati