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Validation of a simple diagnostic relationship for downslope flows
Joan Cuxart1, Daniel Martínez-Villagrasa1, Ivana Stiperski2
1Department of Physics University of the Balearic Islands Palma Spain.
Atmospheric Science Letters : ASL
|July 22, 2022
Summary
A new diagnostic relationship links downslope flow depth, speed, slope, and cooling flux. This model accurately estimates katabatic flow depths using fundamental physics principles.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric Science
- Fluid Dynamics
- Geophysics
Background:
- Downslope flows, such as katabatic winds, are driven by cooling surface temperatures.
- Understanding the dynamics of these flows is crucial for weather and climate studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To derive a diagnostic relationship for downslope flow depth.
- To validate this relationship against observational data and existing models.
Main Methods:
- Developed a conceptual model based on energy balance (turbulence cooling vs. compression warming).
- Derived a diagnostic equation relating flow depth, speed, slope angle, and cooling flux.
- Compared model results with data from two katabatic flow experimental campaigns.
Main Results:
- Established a diagnostic relationship for maximum downslope flow depth.
- The derived relationship shows consistency with bulk heat budget and layer-averaged models.
- Model predictions align well with observational estimations of katabatic flow depths.
Conclusions:
- The diagnostic relationship provides a simple yet effective tool for estimating downslope flow depth.
- This approach offers a new perspective on understanding katabatic wind dynamics.
- The findings are validated by experimental data, enhancing confidence in the model.
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