Shear Excitation of Atmospheric Gravity Waves

Abstract

Unstable Velocity shears are a Common source of vertically propagating gravity waves in the atmosphere. However, the growth rates of unstable modes predicted by linear theory cannot always amount for their observed importance. We examine in this paper, using a numerical model, the nonlinear excitation and evolution of atmospheric gravity waves. It is found that such waves can reach large amplitudes and induce significant accelerations of the mean velocity profile, resulting in shear stabilization and jet formation. Unstable modes that are vertically propagating above and below the shear layer may, when growing in isolation, achieve a state of quasi-sustained radiation. The nonlinear excitation of vertically propagating gravity waves via the interaction of two KH modes is found to be very rapid, providing an explanation for their occurrence in the atmosphere.