Influence of turbulence on ice crystal formation and diffusional growth by the example of stratiform mixed-phase clouds (TINIA)

• Applicants: Dr. Dennis Niedermeier; Dr.-Ing. Frank Stratmann
• Subject Area: Atmospheric Science
• Term: since 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 496345682

This project aims at improving the fundamental understanding of physical processes occurring in stratiform mixed-phase clouds, i.e., thin layer clouds characterized by co-existing supercooled liquid droplets and ice crystals. This type of clouds has a large impact on weather and climate. For example, Arctic stratiform mixed-phase clouds are thought to be a key factor in terms of Arctic warming.Although the knowledge about stratiform mixed-phase clouds has increased significantly during the last decades, relevant microphysical processes and interactions are still poorly understood and ill quantified. For example, crucial questions remain on how, in general, turbulent fluctuations in temperature and saturation influence the formation and diffusional growth of ice crystals and how, in particular, cloud (top) turbulence in stratiform mixed-phase clouds influences these microphysical processes.In the scope of this proposed project, a combination of laboratory studies, numerical simulations and atmospheric observations will be applied to answer these questions. The combination of these three methods comprises great potential for progressing our fundamental understanding concerning the behaviour of stratiform mixed-phase clouds and their roles in both weather and climate.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Spain, USA
• Cooperation Partners: Professor Dr. Juan Pedro Mellado; Professor Dr. Raymond A. Shaw