Potential energy of atmospheric water vapor and the air motions induced by water vapor condensation on different spatial scales
arXiv:1003.5466
Abstract
Basic physical principles are considered that are responsible for the origin of dynamic air flow upon condensation of water vapor, the partial pressure of which represents a store of potential energy in the atmosphere of Earth. Quantitative characteristics of such flow are presented for several spatial scales. It is shown that maximum condensation-induced velocities reach 160 m/s and are realized in compact circulation patterns like tornadoes.
arXiv comment37 pages, 6 figures