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Development of a two-dimensional zonally averaged statistical-dynamical model. I - The parameterization of moist convection and its role in the general circulationThe moist convection parameterization used in the GISS 3-D GCM is adapted for use in a two-dimensional (2-D) zonally averaged statistical-dynamical model. Experiments with different versions of the parameterization show that its impact on the general circulation in the 2-D model does not parallel its impact in the 3-D model unless the effect of zonal variations is parameterized in the moist convection calculations. A parameterization of the variations in moist static energy is introduced in which the temperature variations are calculated from baroclinic stability theory, and the relative humidity is assumed to be constant. Inclusion of the zonal variations of moist static energy in the 2-D moist convection parameterization allows just a fraction of a latitude circle to be unstable and enhances the amount of deep convection. This leads to a 2-D simulation of the general circulation very similar to that in the 3-D model. The experiments show that the general circulation is sensitive to the parameterized amount of deep convection in the subsident branch of the Hadley cell. The more there is, the weaker are the Hadley cell circulations and the westerly jets. The experiments also confirm the effects of momentum mixing associated with moist convection found by earlier investigators and, in addition, show that the momentum mixing weakens the Ferrel cell. An experiment in which the moist convection was removed while the hydrological cycle was retained and the eddy forcing was held fixed shows that moist convection by itself stabilizes the tropics, reduces the Hadley circulation, and reduces the maximum speeds in the westerly jets.
Document ID
19870052108
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Yao, Mao-Sung
(NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies; M/A-COM Sigma Data, Inc. New York, United States)
Stone, Peter H.
(NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies New York, United States)
Date Acquired
August 13, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1987
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of the Atmospheric Sciences
Volume: 44
ISSN: 0022-4928
Subject Category
Meteorology And Climatology
Accession Number
87A39382
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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