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Here we present a new method of identifying wave activity in the tropical stratosphere. NCEP reanalysis II data from January 1, 1979, to December 31, 2010, was used to diagnose properties of vertically-propagating equatorial waves, including wave speed, wave length, wave tilting, and pressure torque. We band-pass ltered time series of these properties to isolate frequencies corresponding to that of the QBO, of which mean zonal wind anomaly is used as a proxy. Every property was found to display a strong quasi-biennial oscillation, indicating the activity of waves which translate these properties is linked to the QBO. The oscillation of properties which are dependent on wave type (Kelvin or Rossby-gravity wave), such as wave speed and wave length, are in phase with transitional periods from easterly mean zonal flow to westerly. Other properties which relate to the momentum carried by the waves prove to be in phase or of opposing phase as the QBO. This shows that the deposition of momentum by vertically-propagating waves peaks as the mean zonal flow peaks, providing evidence for the critical level absorption and regime descent theories of the QBO.
A Thesis submitted to the Department of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciencein partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science.
Bibliography Note
Includes bibliographical references.
Advisory Committee
Ming Cai, Professor Directing Thesis; Allan Clarke, Committee Member; Philip Sura, Committee Member.
Publisher
Florida State University
Identifier
FSU_migr_etd-5318
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