Introduction to Geophysical Fluid Dynamics

This book provides an introductory-level exploration of geophysical fluid dynamics (GFD), the principles governing air and water flows on large terrestrial scales. Physical principles are illustrated with the aid of the simplest existing models, and the computer methods are shown in juxtaposition with the equations to which they apply. It explores contemporary topics of climate dynamics and equatorial dynamics including the Greenhouse Effect, global warming, and the El Nino Southern Oscillation.

*long-awaited second edition of the classic text
*combines both physical and numerical aspects of geophysical fluid dynamics into a single affordable volume
*explores contemporary topics such as the Greenhouse Effect, global warming and the El Nino Southern Oscillation
*biographical and historical notes at the ends of chapters trace the intellectual development of the field

PART I. FUNDAMENTALS
Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: The Coriolis Force
Chapter 3: Equations of Fluid Motion
Chapter 4: Equations Governing Geophysical Flows
Chapter 5: Diffusive Processes
Chapter 6: Transport and Fate

PART II. ROTATIONAL EFFECTS
Chapter 7: Geostrophic Flows and Vorticity Dynamics
Chapter 8: The Ekman Layer
Chapter 9: Barotropic Waves
Chapter 10: Barotropic Instability

PART III. STRATIFICATION EFFECTS
Chapter 11: Stratification
Chapter 12: Layered Models
Chapter 13: Internal Waves
Chapter 14: Turbulence in Stratified Fluids

PART IV. COMBINED ROTATION AND STRATIFICATION EFFECTS
Chapter 15: Dynamics of Stratified Rotating Flows
Chapter 16: Quasi-Geostrophic Dynamics
Chapter 17: Instabilities of Rotating Stratified Flows
Chapter 18: Fronts, Jets and Vortices

PART V. SPECIAL TOPICS
Chapter 19: Atmospheric General Circulation
Chapter 20: Oceanic General Circulation
Chapter 21: Equatorial Dynamics
Chapter 22: Data Assimilation

APPENDICES
Appendix A: Elements of Fluid Mechanics
Appendix B: Wave Kinematics
Appendix C: Recapitulation of Numerical Schemes

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