Pedagogical Mathematica Platform Visualizing the Coriolis Effects in 3-Cell Atmospheric Circulation Model

• Main Authors: Bogyeong Kim, Hee-Joong Yun
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Korean Space Science Society (KSSS) 2014-03-01
• Series: Journal of Astronomy and Space Sciences
• Subjects: Mathematica; fictitious forces; Coriolis force; non-inertial frame.
• Online Access: http://ocean.kisti.re.kr/downfile/volume/kosss/OJOOBS/2014/v31n1/OJOOBS_2014_v31n1_91.pdf

The atmospheric flow in the 3-Cell model of global atmosphere circulation is described by the Lagrange's equation of the non-inertial frame where pressure force, frictional force and fictitious force are mixed in complex form. The Coriolis force is an important factor which requires calculation of fictitious force effects on atmospheric flow viewed from the rotating Earth. We make new Mathematica platform to solve Lagrange's equation by numerical analysis in order to analyze dynamics of atmospheric general circulation in the non-inertial frame. It can simulate atmospheric circulation process anywhere on the earth. It is expected that this pedagogical platform can be utilized to help students studying the atmospheric flow understand the mechanisms of atmospheric global circulation.