Natural Convection as a Heat Engine: A Theory for CAPE

Abstract

In this study we look at planetary convection from a large-scale perspective, that is, in statistical equilibrium. We focus on the physical process by which convection adjusts unstable atmospheres. Our hypothesis is that atmospheric convection is a natural heat engine. Our objective is to present a framework usefull for the basic conceptual understanding of the equilibrium state of convecting atmospheres.

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