Houghton Lecture – Sue van den Heever (CSU)

“Dynamic and Microphysical Processes of Tropical Convection”

Trade wind cumulus, congestus and deep convection comprise the trimodal distribution of tropical convection. The dynamical processes driving these modes of convection are integrally linked to the microphysical processes of such systems, as well as the environments supporting these clouds. In this seminar, the relative importance of those processes driving convective updrafts within congestus and deep convection will first be discussed by analyzing the terms of the vertical momentum equation, and how these terms vary as a function of environmental characteristics, including aerosol loading. Those processes important to determining transient versus terminal congestus development above the 0ºC stable layer will also be identified. This will be followed by an assessment of the spatial scales comprising a storm’s environment, and the role played by the initial environmental characteristics in determining storm morphology, organization and longevity.

About this series: Supported through the Houghton Fund, Houghton Lecturers are distinguished visitors from outside MIT invited to spend a period of time, ranging from a week to several months, as scientists-in-residence within the EAPS Program on Atmospheres, Oceans and Climate (PAOC). During their stay it is customary for each lecturer to offer a short-course or a series of lectures on some topic of wide interest. For more information and Zoom password please contact Kayla Bauer (kbauer@mit.edu)