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An examination of the processes coupling boundary layer clouds to climate
Geoffrey D. Considine, J. A. Curry
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Abstract
A study of factors that can alter the radiative properties of low clouds is presented. The study uses a cloud microphysics model that has been used to simulate cloud droplet spectra and liquid water content in marine stratocumulus. Methods of parameterizing boundary layer clouds and the potential importance of the parameterization method to climate models are examined. The sensitivity of the cloud radiative properties to dynamical and thermodynamic changes is also discussed. A simple cloud case was generated from the model for a sensitivity study. The model results indicate that while detailed microphysics is probably not necessary in order to simulate clouds in general circulation models, the thermodynamic factors that control liquid water content are crucial. The lapse rate of cloud air is central, as is the cloud lifting condensation level and the determination of cloud top. 11 refs., 5 figs.