Rossby wave: Quick Facts

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Photos

Four circular thematic maps show Rossby wave patterns over the North Pole, each illustrating different stages of upper atmospheric airflow. The sequence moves from an uninterrupted jet stream around cold polar air, to the development and amplification of wave patterns, showing high- and low-pressure centers, warm and cold air movement, and the eventual restoration of the initial airflow after a cold air mass detaches. Labels indicate the positions of high (H) and low (L) pressure centers and sho

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Topics

polar vortex Jet stream Polar front jet stream Subtropical jet stream

Key People

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Carl-Gustaf Arvid Rossby

American meteorologist

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