Baroclinic Boundary

Description

A Baroclinic Boundary is accompanied by a stationary front-like cloud band situated at synoptic positions which are not typical for classical fronts.

Content

Baroclinicity means that in the atmosphere surfaces of constant pressure intersect surfaces of constant temperature (or density), implying that on a surface of constant pressure there exists a temperature gradient. Consequently a horizontal stream on a pressure surface causes a change in temperature. In general the atmosphere is in a baroclinic state. But there are self contained areas with stronger baroclinicity like i.e. fronts. A Baroclinic Boundary has no significant propagation. The Baroclinic Boundary to the rear of a synoptic scale trough is the most frequent type and will therefore serve as an example.

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