Abstract

Introduction to Geophysical Fluid Dynamics provides an introductory-level exploration of geophysical fluid dynamics (GFD), the principles governing air and water flows on large terrestrial scales. Physical principles are illustrated with the aid of the simplest existing models, and the computer methods are shown in juxtaposition with the equations to which they apply. It explores contemporary topics of climate dynamics and equatorial dynamics, including the Greenhouse Effect, global warming, and the El Nino Southern Oscillation.

• Combines both physical and numerical aspects of geophysical fluid dynamics into a single affordable volume
• Explores contemporary topics such as the Greenhouse Effect, global warming and the El Nino Southern Oscillation
• Biographical and historical notes at the ends of chapters trace the intellectual development of the field
• Recipient of the 2010 Wernaers Prize, awarded each year by the National Fund for Scientific Research of Belgium (FNR-FNRS).

"...clear, informative, and ambitious...a unique and well-respected approach to dynamic meteorology and physical oceanography...I would recommend this book to advanced undergraduates, graduate students, and others for self-study or reference." --Pure and Applied Geophysics

"...clear, informative, and ambitious...a unique and well-respected approach to dynamic meteorology and physical oceanography...I would recommend this book to advanced undergraduates, graduate students, and others for self-study or reference." --Pure and Applied Geophysics

"This book…is one of the best books introducing the subject matter. The physics underlying the different phenomena of interest to geophysical fluid dynamics is concisely explained…Several problems, questions and exercises are given at the end of each chapter. I highly recommend this to undergraduate students, however, graduate students will also benefit from the material presented." --Contemporary Physics, January 29, 2013

"Introduction to Geophysical Fluid Dynamics is one of the best books introducing the subject matter. The physics underlying the different phenomena of interest to geophysical fluid dynamics is concisely explained…I highly recommend this to undergraduate students, however, graduate students will also benefit from the material presented." --Contemporary Physics, Volume 54, Issue 1