Synoptic scale meteorology

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The synoptic scale in meteorology (also known as large scale or cyclonic scale) is a horizontal length scale of the order of 1000 kilometres (about 620 miles) or more . This corresponds to a horizontal scale typical of mid-latitude depressions. Most high and low pressure areas seen on weather maps are synoptic-scale systems. The word synoptic is derived from the Greek word sunoptikos meaning seen together.

The Navier-Stokes equations applied to atmospheric motion can be simplified by scale analysis in the synoptic scale. It can be shown that main terms in horizontal equations are Coriolis force and pressure gradient terms; therefore, one can use geostrophic approximation. In vertical coordinates the momentum equation simplifies to the hydrostatic equilibrium equation.

See also

• Mesoscale
• Microscale
• Storm-scale
• Misoscale

References

External links

• Definition of synoptic scale
• Definition of synoptic meteorology
• Definition of synoptic hours

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Last updated on Wednesday December 19, 2007 at 13:33:24 PST (GMT -0800)
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