On formation of convective roll vortices by internal gravity waves: A theoretical study

Summary The linearized atmospheric equations system is solved analytically in a two layer model. The solutions show that the thermal disturbance located at the interface can induce internal gravity wave, which propagates downstream in the stable layer and brings about flow disturbances in the lower unstable layer. Motion of roll vortices with flow pattern similar to that found in the convective cloud street forms in the lower part of the upper layer and the upper part of the lower layer. If proper content of water vapor exists the cloud lines presenting small angle with the mean wind appear at the top of the lower layer. The effects of the wind speed and the temperature structures of the atmosphere in the lower convective layer and the overlying stable layer on the characteristics of the roll vortices are also discussed in this study.With 7 Figures