Cloud Modeling

This chapter discusses cloud modeling in the context theory, laboratory experiments, and numerical simulations. For the theory, marine shallow convective clouds in the Earth tropics are discussed first, applying a concept of an air parcel rising from the vicinity of the ocean surface. Second, a theory explaining the organization and longevity of mesoscale convective systems (e.g., squall lines) is discussed. Laboratory experiments allow modeling key cloud processes, such as formation and growth of cloud particles, in detail unattainable in natural cloud studies. Finally, numerical cloud modeling brings together theory and laboratory studies into simulation of cloud and precipitation processes that provide understanding of clouds as part of the Earth weather and climate. Modeling cloud dynamics and microphysics is discussed, and examples of cloud numerical simulations are presented.