Exploring the Formation of Vortices by Rossby Waves in Atmosphere and Ocean

[ImaLooser]

Rossby waves in the atmosphere spawn vortices which are low pressure areas.

Is it possible that the Rossby waves in the ocean spawn vortices? If so, how big might they be?

Something tells me that I'm not going to get an answer to this question.

 

[DrDu]

Understanding very little of that topic I nevertheless dare to express some thoughts on it:
In atmosphere the creation of cyclones is due to smaller scale turbulences being embedded in the Rossby waves. I suppose that the oceanic circulations are much less turbulent on comparable length scales as the Reynolds numbers are much lower due to the higher viscosity of water as compared to air.

 

[Studiot]

Yes, see

Oceanography by Summerhayes and Thorpe, p67

 

[blue7053]

I'm watching for systems 1000 miles in diameter. Often they become stationary and all hell breaks loose. When they become stationary, there is often a Rossby Wave associated with the system. Which comes first: the Rossby Wave, the Super System, the temp/inverted Troposphere, an abnormal stationary updraft?

 

[LudusRex]

I can confirm that Rossby waves can indeed spawn vortices in both the atmosphere and the ocean. These vortices are typically low pressure areas, as mentioned in the content. However, the size of these vortices can vary greatly and is dependent on various factors such as the strength of the Rossby waves, the temperature and salinity of the water, and the surrounding environmental conditions. In general, these oceanic vortices can range from a few kilometers to hundreds of kilometers in diameter. Further research and observations are needed to better understand the formation and behavior of these vortices in the ocean.