Review of the Primitive Equations

Preface

Here is contained a concise summary of the governing equations used in synoptic-scale dynamical meteorology. In particular, the horizontal momentum, thermodynamic, incompressible mass continuity, and vertical momentum equations in isobaric coordinates, and the water conservation equations are given. The horizontal momentum equation is applied to the dynamics of a straight jet, though this is treated in more depth in other parts of the web page.

This discussion is organized along the following topics:

1. Begin here

2. Background

3. Horizontal Momentum Equation

4. Alternative Momentum Equation

5. Interpretations

6. Application of Horizontal Momentum Equation to Straight Jet Streak Dynamics

7. Mass Continuity Equation

8. Thermodynamic Equation

9. Derivation of Thermodynamic Equation: Part I

10. Derivation of Thermodynamic Equation: Part II

11. Hydrostatic Vertical Momentum Equation

12. Water Conservation Equations

13. Simple Water Process Diagram