MODELS OF PRECIPITATING CUMULUS TOWERS

Abstract

This paper presents a model of the growth of cumulus clouds. The water content and maximum height of rising towers are calculated using a buoyancy equation with consideration of effects of entrainment and water load. The latter is subject to effects of modeled microphysical effects. Precipitation growth is parameterized in terms of an autoconversion equation and a collection equation. A precipitation fallout scheme is devised that depends on water content, drop spectrum, and the vertical rise rate of the tower.