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Application of Dynamic Subgrid-scale Models for Large-eddy Simulation of the Daytime Convective Boundary Layer over Heterogeneous Surfaces

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Abstract

The sensitivity of large-eddy simulation (LES) to the representation of subgrid-scale (SGS) processes is explored for the case of the convective boundary layer (CBL) developing over surfaces with varying degrees of spatial heterogeneity. Three representations of SGS processes are explored: the traditional constant Smagorinsky–Lilly model and two other dynamic models with Lagrangian averaging approaches to calculate the Smagorinsky coefficient (C S ) and SGS Prandtl number (Pr). With initial data based roughly on the observed meteorology, simulations of daytime CBL growth are performed over surfaces with characteristics (i.e. fluxes and roughness) ranging from homogeneous, to striped heterogeneity, to a realistic representation of heterogeneity as derived from a recent field study. In both idealized tests and the realistic case, SGS sensitivities are mostly manifest near the surface and entrainment zone. However, unlike simulations over complex domains or under neutral or stable conditions, these differences for the CBL simulation, where large eddies dominate, are not significant enough to distinguish the performance of the different SGS models, irrespective of surface heterogeneity.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, 5732D Boelter Hall, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA

    Hsin-Yuan Huang & Steven A. Margulis

  2. Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA

    Bjorn Stevens

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  1. Hsin-Yuan Huang
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  2. Bjorn Stevens
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  3. Steven A. Margulis
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Correspondence to Steven A. Margulis.

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Huang, HY., Stevens, B. & Margulis, S.A. Application of Dynamic Subgrid-scale Models for Large-eddy Simulation of the Daytime Convective Boundary Layer over Heterogeneous Surfaces. Boundary-Layer Meteorol 126, 327–348 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10546-007-9239-9

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