Simple test calculations concerning finite element applications to numerical weather prediction

Different finite element schemes are investigated with respect to their application in numerical weather prediction. Different methods of staggering of variables are considered. The tests concern the accuracy of a Rossby wave prediction and the generation of noise in a geostrophic adjustment process. Theoretical results concerning the noise level of different schemes are confirmed by computations with a one-dimensional model. Favourable results were obtained by hybrid schemes, using different Galerkin treatments for different terms of the dynamic equations.