Turbulence parameterizations for convective boundary layers in high-resolution mesoscale models
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Authors
Whisenhant, Michelle K.
Subjects
Grid Resolution
Parameterizations
Boundary Layer
Mesoscale Modeling
COAMPS
Parameterizations
Boundary Layer
Mesoscale Modeling
COAMPS
Advisors
Wang, Qing
Date of Issue
2003-12
Date
December 2003
Publisher
Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Several issues associated with grid resolution and the sub-grid scale (SGS) parameterizations in a mesoscale model are addressed in this study. Of particular concern is the issue concerning increasingly high-resolution mesoscale atmospheric numerical models in that sub-grid scale parameterization of atmospheric processes becomes unclear when the grid resolution becomes comparable to the length scale of the phenomenon. These issues are studied through the careful analysis of in situ data and mesoscale model testing. In this study, we perform observational analysis to better understand the scales of turbulence in various environmental conditions. We then explore the capability of the U.S. Navy's current Coupled Ocean-atmosphere Mesoscale Prediction System (COAMPS(tm)), using a real case study of a cold air outbreak over the Japan/East Sea. We analyze the model's ability to perform accurately within the resolvable scales and to accurately represent the boundary layer turbulence mixing when the resolution is high. Based on results from the above analysis, we modify the existing parameterizations towards more realistic representations of the turbulent processes over a relatively wide range of grid resolution, and test this modification within COAMPS(tm).
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Meteorology
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
x, 148 p. : ill. (some col.)
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.