Experiments on baroclinic instabilities

Abstract

We study experiments on baroclinic instabilities in a different heated rotating annulus cooled from within. Characteristic time series of the flow velocity are measured with the Laser-Doppler-Velocimetry (LDV) technique. The surface flow is observed with a co-rotating camera. Steady waves as well as complex flow states are observed. Hysteresis is also found. The drift rate of stable baroclinic waves is determined. The methods of non-linear time series analysis are used to investigate the dynamics of baroclinic waves, particulary in transition zones between different flow regimes.