Factor Separation in Numerical Simulations

Abstract

A simple method is developed for computing the interactions among various factors influencing the atmospheric circulations. It is shown how numerical simulations can be utilized to obtain the pure contribution of any factor to any predicted field, as well as the contributions due to the mutual interactions among two or more factors. The mathematical basis for n factors is developed, and it is shown that 2n simulations are required for the separation of the contributions and their possible interactions. The method is demonstrated with two central factors, the topography and surface fluxes, and their effect on the rainfall distribution for a cyclone evolution in the Mediterranean.