wmo-im
Proposed Addition of Potential Vorticity Unit to WMDR Measurement Unit List
Introduction
Potential vorticity, also known as absolute potential vorticity, has been studied for over 80 years beginning with Hans Ertel in 1942. To maintain consistency with literature, we propose extending the measurement unit code list to include the unit PVU (potential vorticity unit) where 1 PVU = 1E-6 K.m2.kg-1.s-1. This unit is in addition to the current SI derived unit of potential vorticity.
Amendment details
Description: Unit to describe potential vorticity in the atmosphere. 1 PVU = 1E-6 K.m2.kg-1.s-1. Label: Potential Vorticity Unit Notation: PVU
Requestor(s)
Morgan Silverman (github username mlsilver) - AMA/NASA Michael Shook - NASA Gao Chen - NASA
Stakeholder(s)
NASA Earth Science Data and Information System (ESDIS), NASA Atmospheric Composition Research Focus Area
Applications or Systems
- [x] OSCAR/Surface
- [x] OSCAR/requirements
- [ ] GAWSIS
- [ ] Radar/DB
- [ ] OceanOPS
- [ ] WHOS
- [ ] WDQMS
- [ ] GBON Compliance Monitor
- [x] Other
Expected impact of change
LOW
Consultations
No response
Data exchange
No response
Comments
No response
| notation | label | description |
|---|---|---|
| PVU | Potential Vorticity Unit | "PVU (Potential Vorticity Unit) is a conventional SI derived unit of potential vorticity; SI base unit equivalent: 1E-6 K.m2.kg-1.s-1" |
https://github.com/wmo-im/tt-wigosmd/wiki/Meeting.2025.11.20 notes:
team agrees in principle, but to be confirmed with other colleagues in NASA, MeteoSwiss....
We've confirmed with NASA colleagues who agree with the current description.
With the conformation from NASA, we can proceed to add 'PVU' to the unit code list.
