A model of inertial oscillations with deformation frontogenesis

A model of inertial oscillations that may occur with, and be modulated by, deformation frontogenesis is formulated. The deformation parameter is alpha similar to 10(-5) s(-1) and the Coriolis parameter is f similar to 10(-4) s(-1). This timescale separation, distinguished by the ratio alpha/f similar to 10(-1), provides the basis for application of a two-timescale analysis that separates the frontal evolution from the inertial frequency oscillations. To lowest order, the inertial oscillations do not influence frontogenesis, described by the classical Hoskins and Bretherton model. The frontal evolution, characterized by the alongfront geostrophic wind, does, however, provide an amplitude modulation of the inertial wind oscillation and of the temperature that also undergoes an oscillation at the inertial frequency. Parameter values are chosen to illustrate frontal contraction and translation characteristics that can distort the wind hodograph from circular motion. Ground-level temperature traces also exhibit unusual attributes, such as an initial temperature increase with a cold frontal passage, that can be associated with the relative phase of the oscillation compared to the leading edge of the front. Lack of adequate observations for verification purposes and neglect of the boundary layer provide two important limitations.