A Simple Parameterization Coupling the Convective Daytime Boundary Layer and Fair-Weather Cumuli
A new parameterization for boundary-layer cumulus clouds, called the Cumulus Potential (CuP) scheme is introduced. This scheme uses Joint Probability Density Functions (JPDFs) of virtual potential temperature and water-vapor mixing ratio, as well as the mean vertical profiles of virtual potential temperature to predict the amount and size distribution of boundary-layer cloud cover. This model considers the diversity of air parcels over a heterogeneous surface, and recognizes that some parcels rise above their lifting condensation level to become cumulus, while other parcels might rise as non-cloud updrafts. This model has several unique features: (1) cloud cover is determined from the boundary-layer JPDF of virtual potential temperature vs. water-vapor mixing ratio , (2) clear and cloudy thermals are allowed to coexist at the same altitude, and (3) a range of cloud-base heights, cloud-top heights, and cloud thicknesses are predicted within any one cloud field, as observed. Using data from Boundary Layer Experiment 1996, and a model intercomparsion study using Large Eddy Simulation (LES) based on BOMEX, it is shown that the CuP model does a good job predicting cloud-base height and cloud-top height. The model also shows promise in predicting cloud cover, and is found to give better cloud-cover estimates than three other cumulus parameterizations: one based on relative humidity, a statistical scheme based on the saturation deficit, and a slab model.
- Research Organization:
- Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC05-76RL01830
- OSTI ID:
- 15017398
- Report Number(s):
- PNNL-SA-40825; TRN: US200517%%394
- Journal Information:
- Journal of the Atmospheric Sciences, 62(6):1976-1988, Vol. 62, Issue 6
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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