A Large-Droplet Mode and Prognostic Number Concentration of Cloud Droplets in the Colorado State University Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS). Part I: Module Descriptions and Supercell Test Simulations

Abstract

The microphysics module of the version of the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS) maintained at Colorado State University has undergone a series of improvements, including the addition of a large-cloud-droplet mode from 40 to 80 ?m in diameter and the prognostic number concentration of cloud droplets through activation of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) and giant CCN (GCCN). The large-droplet mode was included to represent the dual modes of cloud droplets that often appear in nature. The activation of CCN is parameterized through the use of a Lagrangian parcel model that considers ambient cloud conditions for the nucleation of cloud droplets from aerosol. These new additions were tested in simulations of a supercell thunderstorm initiated from a warm, moist bubble. Model response was explored in regard to the microphysics sensitivity to the large-droplet mode, number concentrations of CCN and GCCN, size distributions of these nuclei, and the presence of nuclei sources and sinks.