Some Quantitative Studies on the General Circulation of the Atmosphere (2)

Abstract

The energy of the general circulation of the atmosphere is mainly supplied by thermal energy, but in some parts of the circulation, say, in temperate latitudes, it is reasonable to consider that the energy of the circulation may be supplied by kinematical process of the earth's rotation.
The kinetic energy of the earth's rotation is 242×10³⁶ ergs and the dissipation in the earth's circulation is estimated by Brunt to be 5×10⁷ ergs per m² per sec.
Thus the delay in the earth's rotation of 0.01_??_2 sec. per 100 years is sufficient enough to maintain the general circulation, assuming the total kinetic energy of the earth to be consumed for it.
Next the thermal and dynamical energies in the equatorial circulation are compared and V. Bjerknes'model of circulation in temperate region is rejected by quantitative analysis.