The inclusion of moisture in a numerical model of steady-state fronts

Abstract

The numerical frontogenesis model of Williams (1971) is modified to include moisture with its subsequent condensation and release of latent heating. The turbulent diffusions of momentum, heat and moisture are represented with various coefficients. The numerical solutions show realistic quasi-steady fronts forming within one to two days. These solutions are examined and compared over a range of the various coefficients, and various ranges of temperature. Inclusion of moisture in the model causes intensification of baroclinicity at mid and upper levels. Also noted is a sensitivity of the moist model to reference potential temperature due to the exponential relationship between saturation water vapor pressure and temperature.