Jovian Dynamics. Part II: The Genesis and Equilibration of Vortex Sets

To extend studies of the dynamics of thin atmospheric layers, the generation and equilibration of multiple anticyclonic vortex sets associated with long solitary baroclinic Rossby waves are examined numerically using a primitive equation model with Jovian parameters subject to a simple heating function. We seek primarily to model the three main groups of anticyclones seen on Jupiter, namely, the Great Red Spot, the three White Ovals, and the dozen or so Small Ovals that occur at latitudes of 2218, 2338, and 2418, respectively. The motions are confined to thin upper layers by exponential vertical structures that favor absolute vortex stability. Calculations are also made to examine the regeneration, intrazonal and interscale interactions, and propagation