Effects of Condensation and Surface Motion on the Structure of Steady-State Fronts

R. T. Williams Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA 93940

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Lang C. Chou Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA 93940

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C. J. Cornelius Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA 93940

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Abstract

A basic numerical model is described which contains diffusions of momentum and heat which balance frontogenetic advections, and also condensation heating and a moist convective adjustment mechanism. Numerical solutions show that frontal zones are strengthened above the planetary boundary layer by condensation heating, but there is little effect at the surface. Experiments with surface frontal motion show only a slight difference between warm and cold fronts, contrary to observations.

Abstract

A basic numerical model is described which contains diffusions of momentum and heat which balance frontogenetic advections, and also condensation heating and a moist convective adjustment mechanism. Numerical solutions show that frontal zones are strengthened above the planetary boundary layer by condensation heating, but there is little effect at the surface. Experiments with surface frontal motion show only a slight difference between warm and cold fronts, contrary to observations.

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