Modified finite-element model for application to terrain-induced mesoscale flows
Terrain-induced mesoscale flows are localized atmospheric motions generated primarily by surface inhomogeneities such as differential heating and irregular terrain. Well-known examples of such flows are sea-and-land breeze circulations, mountain-valley flows, urban heat island circulations and mountain lee waves. A numerical model capable of capturing the details of these frequently complicated flow patterns must often contain a realistic and rather accurate representation of the relevant terrain. Over the last decade, mesoscale models have been developed in which various approaches were used to incorporate variable terrain. In this study, a somewhat unique approach, based on a modified finite element procedure, was used to solve the nonhydrostatic planetary boundary layer equations. The nonhydrostatic and finite element features of the model are particularly advantageous for modeling flows over complex topography. The numerical aspects of the model, the parameterizations currently used, and a few preliminary results are presented.
- Research Organization:
- Lawrence Livermore National Lab., CA (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-48
- OSTI ID:
- 6768289
- Report Number(s):
- UCRL-88033; CONF-830307-1; ON: DE83002055
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: 6. American Meteorological Society symposium on turbulence and diffusion, Boston, MA, USA, 22 Mar 1983; Other Information: Portions are illegible in microfiche products
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
AIR FLOW
TURBULENCE
AIR POLLUTION
ENVIRONMENTAL TRANSPORT
BOUNDARY CONDITIONS
BOUNDARY LAYERS
COMPLEX TERRAIN
DRAINAGE
FINITE ELEMENT METHOD
FLUID FLOW
MATHEMATICAL MODELS
SIMULATION
VELOCITY
WIND
GAS FLOW
LAYERS
MASS TRANSFER
NUMERICAL SOLUTION
POLLUTION
500100* - Environment
Atmospheric- Basic Studies- (-1989)
500200 - Environment
Atmospheric- Chemicals Monitoring & Transport- (-1989)