Discrete Fourier transforms and related topics


Abstract

Much of the theory and analysis for computations on the sphere is best understood in the context of Fourier theory and analysis in Cartesian geometry. In addition, discrete harmonic analysis begins with Fourier analysis in the longitudinal direction. Therefore we begin our study of computations on the sphere with a review of topics in discrete Fourier analysis. Click here to view the notes.

Topics
Trig. representations Spectral accuracy
Nonperiodic functions The discrete basis
Aliasing Trig interpolation
Interpolation error Alias control
Two-thirds rule Subroutine EZFFT
Using EZFFT FFT for any N
Staggered grids Complex transform
Real in terms of complex The FFT
Multiprocessor FFTs Symmetric FFTs
FFTPACK Accessing FFTPACK


Computing on the sphere: Part I


Abstract

Here we discuss the basic tools that are used for the spectral representation of scalar functions
(such as temperature, pressure, divergence) on the sphere.  Click here to view notes.

Topics
Sphere vs rectangle Least squares representation
Assoc. Legendre functions Double Fourier series
Computing the ALFs Integration formulas
ALFPACK Gauss pts & weights
Scalar harmonic analysis Generalized harmonic analysis
Selecting the finite basis


Computing on the sphere: Part II


Abstract

Vectors on the sphere are discontinuous (multivalued) at the poles and therefore scalar spectral analysis cannot be applied to the individual components like Fourier analysis of vectors on the rectangle Important examples for geophysical applications include the wind and magnetic field. Click here to view notes.

Topics
Discontinuous vectors Vector harmonic analysis
Unbounded derivatives Computing vorticity
Bounded differential divergence and gradients
expressions Robert's U, V variables
Vector harmonics and attributes


Computing on the sphere: Part III


Abstract

Here we describe the spectral transform method for modeling geophysical fluids. Actually we discuss two popular methods plus the vector harmonic transform method and note that others exist. The methods are presented by application to the shallow water equations. Click here to view notes.

Topics
Shallow water equations (SWE) SWE with bounded terms
Ritchie's U, V model (ECMWF) Vorticity & divergence formulation (NCAR)
Vector harmonic method & attributes Model results


Mail comments to Paul Swarztrauber.