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Parameterization of the radiative properties of midlatitude high and middle level clouds
Author(s) -
Sassen Kenneth,
Comstock Jennifer M.,
Wang Zhien
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
geophysical research letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.007
H-Index - 273
eISSN - 1944-8007
pISSN - 0094-8276
DOI - 10.1029/2000gl012236
Subject(s) - cirrus , middle latitudes , thermal emittance , optical depth , troposphere , radiative transfer , atmospheric sciences , environmental science , meteorology , geology , physics , optics , beam (structure) , aerosol
The clouds of the middle and upper troposphere are difficult to treat in models because of their variable optical properties. Based on extensive cirrus, altostratus, and altocumulus cloud remote sensing measurements and model simulations, we offer parameterizations of visible optical depth and infrared layer emittance as functions of both cloud temperature and vertical thickness to facilitate climate modeling research. We find significant differences in the emittance relations that depend on cloud phase, but quite similar optical depth versus emittance relations. In comparison to previous midlatitude cirrus results, our findings lead to lower atmospheric heating rates.