Eddy exchange coefficients in numerical models of the planetary boundary layer

Abstract

Specification of the eddy exchange coefficients is perhaps one of the most difficult problems in the numerical modeling of the planetary boundary layer. These coefficients have been computed from finite-difference analogs to analytical expressions associated with surface boundary-layer similarity theory, which is based on observations in an equilibrium surface layer. This procedure leads to erroneous results in the region above the surface layer and in a non-equilibrium surface layer. In addition, differencing problems arise in regions of small vertical wind shear. A new turbulence transport model has been obtained through the closure procedures for the transport equations of the Reynolds stress and the turbulent length scale. The new approach could be used to calculate Reynolds stresses and eddy exchange coefficients throughout a non-neutral planetary boundary layer under non-equilibrium conditions. © 1977 D. Reidel Publishing Company.