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A one-dimensional simulation of the stratocumulus-capped mixed layer

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Abstract

A marine stratocumulus model has been developed which has four major sub-models: (1) a one-dimensional version of the CSU cumulus model, (2) a partially-diagnostic higher-order turbulence model, (3) an atmospheric radiation model for both short-wave and long-wave radiation, and (4) a partial condensation scheme and cloud fractional parameterization.

A set of numerical experiments have been performed to study the interactions among the turbulence, the long-wave radiation, the short-wave radiation, and the sub-grid condensation processes. The results indicate that surface sensible eddy heat flux and not radiative cooling is the major control on the rate of cloud-top entrainment. Cloud-top radiation cooling occurs principally within the upper part of the mixed layer. However, for the stratocumulus with numerous towers penetrated into the capping inversion, most of the long-wave radiation occurs within the capping inversion. It is found that cloud-top radiation cooling is balanced by turbulence transport of sensible heat from cloud-base levels.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Atmospheric Science, Colorado State University, 80523, Fort Collins, Co., USA

    Chaing Chen & William R. Cotton

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  1. Chaing Chen
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  2. William R. Cotton
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Chen, C., Cotton, W.R. A one-dimensional simulation of the stratocumulus-capped mixed layer. Boundary-Layer Meteorol 25, 289–321 (1983). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00119541

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00119541

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