3. Dynamics

Vorticity And Divergence — Quiz

Test your understanding of vorticity and divergence with 5 practice questions.

Practice Questions

Question 1

Given a horizontal wind field defined by $u=2\times10^{-5}x\ \mathrm{m/s}$ and $v=0$, what are the divergence $D$ and relative vorticity $\zeta$?

Question 2

What is the effect of horizontal convergence (confluence) on the relative vorticity of an air column under frictionless conditions?

Question 3

Compute the potential vorticity in PVU for a column with $\zeta=2\times10^{-5}\ \mathrm{s^{-1}}$, $f=1\times10^{-4}\ \mathrm{s^{-1}}$, and depth $H=2000\ \mathrm{m}$, given $\mathrm{PV}=(\zeta+f)/H$ and $1\ \mathrm{PVU}=10^{-6}\ \mathrm{m^2\,s^{-1}\,K\,kg^{-1}}$.

Question 4

A fluid parcel moves from a region where $H=1500\ \mathrm{m}$ to $H=1000\ \mathrm{m}$ with initial $\zeta=1.0\times10^{-5}\ \mathrm{s^{-1}}$ at $f=1.0\times10^{-4}\ \mathrm{s^{-1}}$. If potential vorticity $\mathrm{PV}=(\zeta+f)/H$ is conserved, what is the new $\zeta$?

Question 5

Which mechanism describes baroclinic generation of vorticity in the atmosphere?