A Statistical Approach of Estimating Vertical Temperature Gradients from Near-Surface Observations

Abstract

A simple method for estimating vertical temperature gradients in the atmospheric boundary layer from near-surface temperature data is developed. The method is based on the statistical correlation existing between the vertical temperature gradient and the radiational contribution to the near-surface temperature. The existence of hysteresis-like cycles between these two quantities, occurring during day?night cycles, is shown. The method is tested using tower data obtained at various locations.