Open AccessInfluence of topography on the Phoenix CO 2 dome: a computational study
Author(s) -
Wang Ge,
OstojaStarzewski Martin
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
atmospheric science letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.951
H-Index - 45
ISSN - 1530-261X
DOI - 10.1002/asl.67
Subject(s) - phoenix , mesoscale meteorology , dome (geology) , metropolitan area , climatology , environmental science , atmospheric sciences , katabatic wind , circulation (fluid dynamics) , meteorology , geography , geology , geomorphology , archaeology , physics , thermodynamics
Recent measurements reveal that atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) concentrations in the urban core of Phoenix, Arizona, are often 200 ppmv above the surrounding areas. This increase is up to two orders of magnitude higher than comparable values in other cities. In this investigation, we examine the role of topographically induced circulation as a contributor to the CO 2 dome. A three‐dimensional time‐dependent regional model shows that frequently occurring katabatic winds generate a mesoscale circulation in Phoenix conducive to the accumulation of CO 2 in the center of the city. We conclude that local topography and associated circulation regimes are important in understanding the high levels of CO 2 in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Copyright © 2004 Royal Meteorological Society