Sensitivity analysis of a coupled atmospheric-oceanic boundary layer model

Abstract

Abstract : In this thesis, a coupled atmospheric-oceanic boundary layer model which provides a single station assessment and prediction capability has been developed from independently formulated one-dimensional oceanic and atmospheric bulk boundary layer models. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to determine major differences in the response of the coupled model compared to those of the separate oceanic and atmospheric models. The general behavior of the coupled model is not significantly different from that of the atmospheric model alone over short term simulations (12 to 24 hours). However, under a certain set of limited conditions where winds are light and the lifting condensation level is close to the height of the inversion, large differences may occur. Major differences between the predicted evolution of the ocean boundary layer by the ocean model and coupled model are more common, and the short term predictive ability of the ocean model in coupled form is enhanced. Keywords include: Ocean mixed layer; Marine atmospheric boundary layer; Air-sea interactions; and Coupled air-ocean model.