Synoptic Features and Energetics of Wave-Amplitude Vacillation in a Rotating, Differentially-Heated Fluid

Abstract

Wave-amplitude vacillation in a thermally driven, rotating cylindrical annulus of fluid is studied using temperature and speed data from a 98-probe network of tiny bead thermistors suspended in the fluid. Mid-depth synoptic charts and estimates of heat and momentum fluxes, spectral characteristics and energetics are presented as a function of time. Relationships to time-dependent atmospheric phenomena are discussed. A section is included which deals with the effects of probes.