Parameterization of the Radiative Properties of Midlatitude High and Middle Level Clouds
Journal Article
·
· Geophysical Research Letters, 28(4):729-732
The clouds of the middle and upper troposphere are difficult to treat in models because of their variable optical properties. Based on extensive cirrus, altostratus, and altocumulus cloud remote sensing measurements and model simulations, we offer parameterizations of visible optical depth and infrared layer emittance as functions of both cloud temperature and vertical thickness to facilitate climate modeling research. We find significant differences in the emittance relations that depend on cloud phase, but quite similar optical depth versus emittance relations. In comparison to previous midlatitude cirrus results, our findings lead to lower atmospheric heating rates.
- Research Organization:
- Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC05-76RL01830
- OSTI ID:
- 15010667
- Report Number(s):
- PNNL-SA-41310; KP1201030
- Journal Information:
- Geophysical Research Letters, 28(4):729-732, Journal Name: Geophysical Research Letters, 28(4):729-732
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Parameterization of Infrared Absorption in Midlatitude Cirrus Clouds
A Midlatitude Cirrus Cloud Climatology from the Facility for Atmospheric Remote Sensing. Part III: Radiative Properties
Radiation Parameterization for Three-Dimensional Inhomogeneous Cirrus Clouds Applied to ARM Data and Climate Models
Journal Article
·
Wed Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2003
· Journal of the Atmospheric Sciences, 60(2):428-433
·
OSTI ID:15010667
+1 more
A Midlatitude Cirrus Cloud Climatology from the Facility for Atmospheric Remote Sensing. Part III: Radiative Properties
Journal Article
·
Wed Aug 01 00:00:00 EDT 2001
· Journal of the Atmospheric Sciences, 58(15):2113-2127
·
OSTI ID:15010667
Radiation Parameterization for Three-Dimensional Inhomogeneous Cirrus Clouds Applied to ARM Data and Climate Models
Technical Report
·
Mon Dec 29 00:00:00 EST 2003
·
OSTI ID:15010667