SUMMARYThe mathematical consequences of a first-order temperature discontinuity at a front are developed for the fields of pressure, temperature, and geostrophic wind. These results are applied to determine the correct construction of synoptic charts in the vicinity of fronts, and to determine criteria for obtaining the boundary levels of frontal surfaces, as well as their orientations and slopes. Techniques for qualitative and quantitative evaluation of vertical motions at fronts are also presented. These concepts, and analytical methods based on them, are illustrated by reference to the synoptic situation over North America on 4 April 1950. Particular attention is paid to the structure of occluded frontal waves, their three-dimensional analysis and representation.
An empirical technique is developed for obtaining the flux transmission, over a narrow spectral interval, of an assembly of layers of varying pressure and temperature. Although verified only for a regular spectrum of the type proposed by Elsasser (1942), the technique should be valid for any type of spectrum. Using this technique as a check, an empirical method of sufficient accuracy is developed for evaluating the integrated flux transmission of an assembly of layers. This latter method enables the radiation‐chart procedures, advocated by Elsasser (1942), Robinson (1947), and Yamamoto (1952), to be tested for simply‐stratified atmospheric models. Such tests reveal that the effects of temperature are inadequately taken into account. A principle advocated by Cowling (1950b) is developed into a radiation‐chart procedure, in which the absorbing mass of each individual layer is corrected to a standard temperature and pressure. The coordinates of such a radiation chart are presented, but unfortunately adequate experimental data for the construction of such a chart are not yet available.
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