Turbulence effect on microphysics of mixed-phase deep convective clouds

 

Authors

Nir Benmoshe — The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Alexander Khain — The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Category

Cloud Properties

Description

In many recent studies the effects of turbulence on collisions of cloud droplets was investigated. It was shown that turbulence in cumulus clouds increases collision rate between cloud droplets several times and decreases the height level of formation of raindrops. In the present study the potential effect of turbulence on the microstructure of mixed-phase deep convective clouds is investigated using the spectral bin microphysical model of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The collision rate enhancement between ice particles as well between ice particles and water drops is investigated. It is shown that turbulence intensifies process of riming and formation of graupel.

Effects of turbulence on cloud microphysics is investigated in simulations of clouds developing under different aerosol loading.

Turbulence leads to acceleration of precipitation onset. At the same time turbulence decreases amount of accumulated rain at the stage of cold precipitation.