Thermodynamics of mixed stratocumulus layers: saturation point budgets

Saturation point (SP) diagrams and a circulation model are used to analyze the thermodynamics of mixed stratocumulus layers, and develop conceptual tools for observational and parametric analyses. These models show the relation between SP structure and the thermodynamic fluxes for steady and unsteady mixed layers, couple convective and radiative fluxes at cloud top and within the layer, and suggest closure conditions on the circulation energetics using θv isopleths. The steady-state model shows a mixing line SP structure below cloud top with correspondingly simple surface flux parameterizations. The time-dependent mixed layer budgets are formulated using an SP vector diagram to show the approach to equilibrium, the internal circulation, and the relationship between Eulerian and Lagrangian flux descriptions.

Related paper: Betts, A. K., 1982: Saturation Point Analysis of Moist Convective Overturning.

Related paper: Betts, A. K., 1982: Cloud Thermodynamic Models in Saturation Point Coordinates.

Related paper: Betts, A. K., 1984: Boundary layer thermodynamics of a High Plains severe storm

Related paper: Betts, A. K., 1985: Mixing line analysis of clouds and cloudy boundary layers

Related paper: Betts, A. K., 1986: A new convective adjustment scheme. Part I

Related paper: Betts, A. K. and M.J. Miller, 1986: A new convective adjustment scheme. Part II

Related Topics

• Boundary Layer,
• Clouds,
• Idealized models,
• Thermodynamics