The 27-28 October 1986 FIRE IFO cirrus case study: cloud microstructure

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Abstract

Two cloud layers were sampled from top to base. The upper layer was found at altitudes between 8.5 and 11.5 km and the lower between 6.0 and 8.5 km. Vertical velocities calculated from the increase in ice mass flux with height were typical of synoptic scale lifting. Stronger vertical velocities were measured in convective cells at the top of the lower layer. The total ice particle concentration was dominated by particles <200 μm. Mean particle size and ice water content increased with decreasing altitude. The largest particles, exceeding 1000 μm in the upper layer and 1500 μm in the lower layer, probably resulted from aggregation, even at cold temperatures. Cloud emissivity and optical depth were calculated from the ice particle size spectra. -from Authors

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2313-2328
Number of pages16
JournalMonthly Weather Review
Volume118
Issue number11
DOIs
StatePublished - 1990

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