Radiation Balance

Various meteorological parameters (temperature, humidity, and wind) above the surface of the earth are measured using balloons (radiosondes) twice each day at specific locations. The balloons are launched just before 12Z (6 AM in Iowa) and 00Z (6 PM). Data for 6 AM reflect conditions from the previous night; the 6 PM values represent daytime conditions.

During the fall of 1997, a narrow band of snow fell across the state of Iowa. The data in this simulation are based on this event using the snow and surrounding surface conditions. We will examine the differing effects of the various surface conditions on temperature.

You will be asked to explore and observe various environments for both day and night conditions. Then you will use your best judgement to tie your own experiences into a coherent picture. We will use your observations during the following class periods to understand how these different conditions occurred. There will be two parts to this activity. The first is described below. The second will be completed later.

Task:

For this activity, your task is to describe the effects of ground cover, time of day, and altitude on temperature. To do this:
  1. explore the simulation under various conditions and observe the results
  2. record your conclusions on a piece of paper
  3. complete the exercise Rad_Sim_Part_1 on the assignments menu of CLASSNET.
  4. Enter your conclusions about how ground cover, time of day, and altitude effect temperature in the text box provided.
  5. Submit your assignment by clicking on the SUBMIT button in the Rad_Sim_Part_1 assignment.
Your observations will be used in class activities to understand how these conditions occurred.

Directions:

Drag the balloon in the following picture to various heights with the mouse. The height of the balloon (in meters) will be indicated. The temperatures corresponding to the various heights will be used to produce a vertical profile of temperature in the accompanying graph. Surface conditions and time of day will change the temperature profile. Compare the different profiles and record your general results for submission. You may plot several profiles concurrently to compare differences before clearing the plot.
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