Abstract
A simple turbulent energy equation based on semi-empirical turbulence theory was used to parameterize the vertical eddy exchange processes in the atmospheric boundary layer. Numerical experiments with a one-dimensional version of the Techniques Development Laboratory boundary layer model were conducted to evaluate the parameters employed in the turbulent energy equation. These parameters include the ratio αT between eddy diffusivity for heat and that for momentum, and the turbulence length scale l.
The study concludes that while specification of l has a great effect on the wind speed, values of αT affect the prediction of temperature substantially. With a proper choice of l and aT, the turbulent energy parameterization scheme may be useful for modeling detailed structures of the boundary layer. Results with four different specification of l and αT are presented and compared with observations. Recommendations are made on the proper specification of l and αT for use in the turbulent energy equation.
