A Low-Order Model of a Moist General Circulation: Formulation and Testing.
Abstract
A model of a moist general circulation is constructed. The basic dependent variables are the stream function, velocity potential, individual pressure change, air temperature, total dew point, and ocean temperature. The model is simplified first by assigning a vertical structure to each variable, so that values of the variables at the ocean-atmosphere interface may be used as new variables. Te new variables are then expanded in highly truncated series of orthogonal functions. Quasi-geostrophic beta-plane dynamics are used. The diabatic processes are evaporation and precipitation, transfer of sensible and latent heat, and short-wave and long-wave radiation; solar radiation drives the circulation. Preliminary numerical solutions show that the model produces qualitatively reasonable patterns, occuring in qualitatively reasonable sequence. Extended time intervals are sometimes required for initial transient conditions to die out. For suitably chosen solar heating, two stable equilibrium states - a cold state and a warm state - are alternative possible outcomes. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 31, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA126331
Entities
People
- Edward N. Lorenz
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology