Air Mass Modification due to Change in Surface Characteristics

Abstract

A simple empirical model is developed based on physical and dimensional considerations to predict the height of air mass modification due to a change in surface characteristics. Most of the input parameters can be obtained from surface weather maps. The results of the empirical model are found to be in good agreement with observations made in the atmosphere over ocean with cooler downwind temperatures. The model is then used with appropriate parameters to predict flow modification over a heated surface in a wind tunnel for different upwind and downwind surface conditions.