Studies of the energetics of synoptic-scale systems and similar kinds of
investigation have traditionally used a Eulerian framework. In this
study, the energetics of a synoptic-scale system have been considered
using a quasi-Lagrangian method, in order to isolate the disturbance
under consideration within a volume which moves together with the system
at each stage of its development.
Applying a Lagrangian framework implies that the dimensions of the
computational area can be modified on the basis of predetermined
criteria. In this study, an area surrounding a depression as shown on
the surface analysis, has been selected. This area moves together with
the centre of the depression. The energetics results obtained using such
a quasi-Lagrangian scheme are compared to those obtained by using a
Eulerian framework.
The synoptic-scale system studied here is a wintertime frontal
depression, the greatest development of which occurred in the central
Mediterranean on 7 December 1991. This depression moved east accompanied
by significant temperature changes, heavy precipitation and gale force
winds