This book describes the methods used to construct general circulation models of the atmosphere, and how such models perform in applications relating to the real climate and environmental systems. The author describes the fundamental dynamics of the atmospheric circulation, modelling of the general circulation, and applications of GCMs. The book consits of three parts:

• Part 1 summarizes the physical processes involved, including basic equations, waves and instabilities;
• Part 2 covers atmospheric structures, including various types of one- and two-dimensional structures and circulations;
• Part 3 describes the basic notions for construction of general circulation models of the atmosphere and their applications.

The text includes an appendix incorporating the basic data and mathematical formulae required to enable readers to construct GCMs for themselves.

First book to combine theoretical concepts, simple models and numerical methods used for modelling the general circulation of the atmosphere Concentrates on the physical mechanisms responsible for the development of coherent large-scale structures with detailed coverage of numerical methods Comprehensive coverage of an important and rapidly developing technique used in atmospheric science