Eddy-mean flow interactions in atmospheric angular momentum changes with global warming

The response of the atmospheric angular momentum (AAM) to increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases and aerosols (GHGA) is analyzed in a set of CCCma coupled model integrations. AAM increases overall with the largest contribution to the increase in the form of an acceleration of the zonal wind in the tropical-subtropical upper troposphere. The dynamical processes supporting the AAM increase are investigated by examining terms in the AAM budget. The roles of stationary/transient eddies and of the meridional circulation are considered as well as that of the stress and mountain torques.