A Parameterization of Intermittent Turbulence in the Stable Boundary Layer

This model explores the interaction between a cooling vegetated surface and the lower atmosphere. Neglecting any possibility of intermittence generated from the top of the stable boundary layer, the frequency of intermittency can be defined as a function of the three input quantities--pressure gradient force, cloud cover fraction, and boundary layer height. It is not clear if the amplitude of the intermittency and the time to reach a quasi-steady state can also be described as a function of the inputs. In addition, time-dependent inputs have an effect on the overall intermittency. Fluctuations in the pressure gradient force have the most influence in decreasing the periods while varying cloud cover fraction decreases the amplitude of the intermittence. It is unclear whether the transition time is affected by the fluctuating inputs. To gauge the sufficiency of this model, the results must be compared to experimental studies and models that include the forcing at the top of the stable boundary layer.