Atmospheric vertical energy flux due to a ground disturbance

Abstract

Evaluations are given of the nett mean vertical energy flux due to small oscillations at several altitudes caused by a ground disturbance in a wind- and temperature-stratified atmosphere. A theoretical model is assumed which consists of an inviscid perfect gas above a flat nonrotating earth. Results are given for various wind and temperature profiles. It is found that winds can appreciably affect the energy flux due to long-period waves at great heights. The importance of the temperature structure in the vicinity of critical levels is demonstrated. The significance of 'leaky' modes is discussed with regard to the relationship between the discrete and continuous spectra of waves. A simple approximation to energy flux associated with acoustic waves of short periods is found to apply for certain ground disturbances. The relevance of the results to traveling ionospheric disturbances is discussed.