How did they get that the vorticity = 2##\omega##?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mathematical definition of vorticity in meteorology, specifically the equation \(\nabla \times \mathbf{u} = 2\mathbf{\omega}\). The user references the book "Atmospheric Science" by Wallace and Hobbs, highlighting confusion regarding the natural coordinate system defined by arc length (s) and normal distance (n) along a streamline. The user understands angular velocity, shear, curvature, and differentiation but struggles to grasp the application of these concepts in the context of vorticity as defined in the book.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular velocity in fluid dynamics
  • Familiarity with the concepts of shear and curvature
  • Knowledge of differentiation and partial differentiation
  • Basic principles of meteorological kinematics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of vorticity in fluid dynamics
  • Learn about the natural coordinate system in meteorology
  • Explore the application of the curl operator in vector calculus
  • Review examples of vorticity in atmospheric phenomena
USEFUL FOR

Meteorology students, atmospheric scientists, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of fluid dynamics and vorticity in weather systems.

Hall
Messages
351
Reaction score
87
Homework Statement
Deriving an expression for vorticity.
Relevant Equations
Vorticity =##2 \omega##
I'm learning Meteorology, and using the book Atmospheric Science by Wallace and Hobbs. We're discussing the kinematics of the winds (fluids). I shall post some images to say what I don't understand. This is how they define their natural coordinate system
At any point on the surface one can define a pair of axes of a sys- tem of natural coordinates (s, n), where s is arc length directed downstream along the local streamline, and n is distance directed normal to the streamline and toward the left,
Screenshot 2022-05-25 at 5.48.06 PM.png

Screenshot 2022-05-25 at 5.51.01 PM.png
Screenshot 2022-05-25 at 5.51.31 PM.png
I know and understand the concepts of angular velocity, shear, curvature, differentiation, and partial differentiation but for some reason, which is latent to me, I cannot understand anything that the book has done. Will you please explain it to me?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I am not sure whether I understand the book but mathematical definition of vorticity says
\nabla \times \mathbf{u}=2\mathbf {\omega}
where
u_x=- \omega y,\ u_y=\omega x,\,\ u_z=0
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Hall

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
5K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K