Modeling Snow Saltation: The Effect of Grain Size and Interparticle Cohesion

The surface of the Earth is snow-covered at least seasonally over large areas. This snow highly dynamic, particularly under influence strong winds. motion particles driven by wind not only changes cover but has important consequences for atmosphere in that it adds mass and moisture extracts heat. Large scale meteorological climatological models neglect these dynamics or produce conflicting results from too simplified process representation. With recent progress detailed understanding saltation process, particular with respect to sand saltation, advancement numerical models, we can systematically investigate properties on saltation. contribution uses a Eddy Simulation model full particle how cohesion size distribution total flux. reproduces some known characteristics system such as focus point constant near speed. An interesting result grain heterogeneity increase overall flux high friction velocities. Moreover, agree reasonably well simulations given bed characteristics, while others clearly do not. These are valid continuous intermittent which often occurs nature, needs further investigation. In order successfully parameterize must be made correctly representing cohesion.