A One-Dimensional Atmospheric Boundary Layer Model: Comparison with Observations
Abstract
This report examines details of a one-dimensional (1D) atmospheric boundary layer model to establish the proper functioning of its soil, plant, and atmospheric physics. To achieve this goal, I inspect, repair, and modify a computer program that scientists at the Hebrew University, Department of Soil and Water Sciences, gave to me years ago. The computer program was exercised to determine if the model results are stable when initial conditions are changed and to determine whether the results are sensible and generally consistent with observed data. To show this, I present a time series of the modeled surface energy budget and modeled profiles of boundary layer wind speed, potential temperature, and specific humidity for daytime (atmospherically unstable conditions) and for nighttime (atmospherically stable conditions). I compare these results, wherever practical, with observed meteorological data. From these results, I infer how well the transfers of momentum, heat, and moisture from one model layer to the next are characterized. I also present root mean square error and d values, where d is an index of agreement, to summarize the model results and comparison with observed data. From the results, I find that the 1D model is functioning properly in solving for many parameter relationships and is as reliable as the earlier models of this type in predicting the general features of boundary layer development.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA382145
Entities
People
- Arnold D. Tunick
Organizations
- United States Army Research Laboratory