Discover

(Redirected from Synoptic meteorology)
The 'synoptic scale' in meteorology (also known as 'large scale' or 'cyclonic scale') is a horizontal length scale of the order of 1000 kilometres (about 620 miles) or more ^[1]. This corresponds to a horizontal scale typical of mid-latitude depressions. Most high and low pressure areas seen on weather maps are synoptic-scale systems. The word 'synoptic' is derived from the Greek word ''sunoptikos'' meaning ''seen together''.
The Navier-Stokes equations applied to atmospheric motion can be simplified by scale analysis in the synoptic scale. It can be shown that main terms in horizontal equations are Coriolis force and pressure gradient terms; therefore, one can use geostrophic approximation. In vertical coordinate momentum equation simplifies to hydrostatic equilibrium equation.

Contents

See Also

References

External links

See Also

★ Mesoscale meteorology

★ Storm-scale

References

1. American Meteorological Society. Cyclonic scale. Retrieved on 2007-05-10.

External links

★ Definition of synoptic scale

★ Definition of synoptic meteorology

★ Definition of synoptic hours