Simulations using a 3D-moment turbulence closure in a two-dimensional cloud model - Comparisons with observations

Abstract

A method for deep cumulus cloud simulations is presented, in which the plumes or clouds are simulated using a two-dimensional axisymmetric numerical cloud model with third-moment turbulence closure. This method is based on the assumption that the only uncertainty in the turbulence closure is in the turbulent length scale specification. Therefore, the length scale is varied, and, using different length scales, the simulated plumes are compared to the observed ones, making it possible to optimize the length scale prescription.