Editorial Type:
Article
Article Type:
Research Article

Daytime Heat Transfer Processes Related to Slope Flows and Turbulent Convection in an Idealized Mountain Valley

Stefano Serafin Atmospheric Physics Group, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Trento, Trento, Italy

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Dino Zardi Atmospheric Physics Group, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Trento, Trento, Italy

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Print Publication:
01 Nov 2010
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1175/2010JAS3428.1
Page(s):
3739–3756
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Abstract

The mechanisms governing the daytime development of thermally driven circulations along the transverse axis of idealized two-dimensional valleys are investigated by means of large-eddy simulations. In particular, the impact of slope winds and turbulent convection on the heat transfer from the vicinity of the ground surface to the core of the valley atmosphere is examined. The interaction between top-down heating produced by compensating subsidence in the valley core and bottom-up heating due to turbulent convection is described. Finally, an evaluation of the depth of the atmospheric layer affected by the slope wind system is provided.

Corresponding author address: Stefano Serafin, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Trento, Via Mesiano 77, I-38123 Trento, Italy. Email: stefano.serafin@ing.unitn.it

Abstract

The mechanisms governing the daytime development of thermally driven circulations along the transverse axis of idealized two-dimensional valleys are investigated by means of large-eddy simulations. In particular, the impact of slope winds and turbulent convection on the heat transfer from the vicinity of the ground surface to the core of the valley atmosphere is examined. The interaction between top-down heating produced by compensating subsidence in the valley core and bottom-up heating due to turbulent convection is described. Finally, an evaluation of the depth of the atmospheric layer affected by the slope wind system is provided.

Corresponding author address: Stefano Serafin, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Trento, Via Mesiano 77, I-38123 Trento, Italy. Email: stefano.serafin@ing.unitn.it

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