Some Synoptic Effects Of Long-Wave Radiation From Cloud-Top

Abstract

Calculations with a synoptic case study show that long-wave radiative cooling tends to reduce the available potential energy, especially in the upper troposphere. Synoptic-scale precipitation amounts resulting from destabilization of clouds by long-wave cooling are computed. These range up to 1.4 mm in 12 hours. This destabilizing effect may be important in explaining the nocturnal maximum of precipitation over the sea. It may also contribute significantly to cyclone development.