NUMERICAL SOLUTION OF THE DISTRIBUTION OF WIND AND TURBULENCE IN THE PLANETARY BOUNDARY LAYER
Abstract
The objective of this study is to develop a theoretical model for the structure of turbulence in the atmosphere and to solve the equations for the distribution of wind and turbulence in the planetary boundary layer. Starting with the basic equation of motion for an incompressible fluid, it is modified to incorporate the mixing length hypothesis of Prandtl to relate the turbulent stresses to the mean flow characteristics. It is assumed the atmosphere is adiabatic, barotropic, and in a steady state. These assumptions are not all essential to the solution, but do simplify the discussion. Based on the assumptions, a relation for the mixing length distribution within the boundary layer is developed. Using this relationship in the equation of motion led to a set of second order, nonlinear differential equations, which were solved on a digital computer. Universal profiles of the wind, stress, and eddy viscosity were fixed by invoking the important notion of similarity; that is, it is assumed the scale of turbulence is uniquely related to the gross dimensions of the boundary layer.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1964
- Accession Number
- AD0448301
Entities
People
- James F. Appleby
- William D. Ohmstede