Nonlinear Dynamics and Statistical Theories for Basic Geophysical Flows

Andrew J. Majda is the Morse Professor of Arts and Sciences at the Courant Institute of New York University. Xiaoming Wang is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics at Iowa State University.

• 1. Barotropic geophysical flows and two-dimensional fluid flows: an elementary introduction; 2. The Response to large scale forcing; 3. The selective decay principle for basic geophysical flows; 4. Nonlinear stability of steady geophysical flows; 5. Topographic mean-flow interaction, nonlinear instability, and chaotic dynamics; 6. Introduction to empirical statistical theory; 7. Equilibrium statistical mechanics for systems of ordinary differential equations; 8. Statistical mechanics for the truncated quasi-geostrophic equations; 9. Empirical statistical theories for most probable states; 10. Assessing the potential applicability of equilibrium statistical theories for geophysical flows: an overview; 11. Predictions and comparison of equilibrium statistical theories; 12. Equilibrium statistical theories and dynamical modeling of flows with forcing and dissipation; 13. Predicting the jets and spots on Jupiter by equilibrium statistical mechanics; 14. Statistically relevant and irrelevant conserved quantities for truncated quasi-geostrophic flow and the Burger–Hopf model; 15. A mathematical framework for quantifying predictability utilizing relative entropy; 16. Barotropic quasi-geostrophic equations on the sphere; Bibliography; Index.

'… this book is a valuable contribution to the fascinating intersection of applied mathematics and geophysical fluid dynamics. … The authors are adept at illuminating and motivating rigorous mathematical analysis, qualitative models and physical intuition through exceptionally lucid exposition and a rich collection of examples.' Mathematical Reviews