A DEMONSTRATION OF FRONTS AND FRONTAL WAVES IN ATMOSPHERIC MODELS

Abstract

The remarkable similarity between the motions in a heated rotating tank of water (dishpan experiments) and the large-scale motions of the atmosphere has raised the question of the similarity of the details of the motion. It has been found possible to demonstrate visually the existence of frontal systems and associated wave cyclones. Analyses and photographs showing the relationships of these systems to the large-scale circulations are presented. It is concluded that similarity in laboratory models is not confined to that scale of motion commonly referred to as the general circulation.