Rossby parameter

The Rossby parameter (or simply beta $\beta$) is a number used in geophysics and meteorology which arises due to the meridional variation of the Coriolis force caused by the spherical shape of the Earth. It is important in the generation of Rossby waves. The Rossby parameter $\beta$ is given byLecture Notes
for Atmospheric Science Mesoscale Dynamics (MEA 713). North Carolina State University. Accessed 14 July 2007.

:$\beta = \frac = \frac \frac (2 \omega \sin\phi) = \frac$

where $f$ is the Coriolis parameter, $\phi$ is the latitude, $\omega$ is the angular speed of the Earth's rotation, and $a$ is the mean radius of the Earth. Although both involve Coriolis effects, the Rossby parameter describes the ''variation'' of the effects with latitude (hence the latitudinal derivative), and should not be confused with the Rossby number.

See also

* Beta plane

References

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Atmospheric dynamics