Application of a Radiative–Conductive Model to the Simulation of Nocturnal Temperature Changes over Different Soil Types

Abstract

For a calm night, nocturnal temperature profiles pertaining to various soil types are computed for the entire boundary layer. The mathematical analysis is based upon a numerical solution of the equations of motion, heat conduction and radiative transfer. The effect of radiative temperature change upon the total cooling rate is investigated. Some other interesting quantities associated with the distribution of the exchange coefficient and wind velocity components as a function of height and time are also calculated. Solutions are presented in graphical format. All results such as temperature profiles, inversion heights and wind spirals seem to be in reasonable agreement with theoretical and observational deductions.