Steady two-layer vortices on the beta-plane

Monopolar vortices are studied in the framework of the quasigeostrophic two-layer equations. Steady, eastward-travelling vortex solutions with a baroclinic vertical structure and closed streamlines in both layers are obtained' by perturbation analysis. The radial profile is essentially arbitrary in the region of closed streamlines. Westward-travelling vortices with a similar structure radiate barotropic waves, and are therefore unsteady. The propagation velocity of the vortices is essentially determined by the ‘hetonic’ mechanism, i.e. by the horizontal shift between the upper and lower-layer vortices. Their dynamics are studied qualitatively, and it is concluded that eastward-travelling vortices are stable, whereas those travelling westward are unstable.