Induction of vortex structures in the Jovian atmosphere by fragments of Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9
Kamenets F. F., Pukhov A. M., Ivanov M. F., Fortov V. E.
Possible perturbations of the Jovian atmosphere caused by the incidence of fragments of Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 are analyzed. The energy released as a result of the destruction of the largest fragments in the atmosphere is sufficient for the formation of long-lived vortex structures in the upper layers of the atmosphere. The primary mechanism for the formation of large-scale vortices is a horizontal baroclinity. The conclusions reached here are supported by astronomical observations of the collision of the comet with Jupiter. The subsequent evolution of the vortices which are formed is predicted on the basis of a model of a 2D baroclinic Jovian atmosphere. © 1994 American Institute of Physics.