Abstract
We examine methods for the interpretation of sodar facsimile records obtained in the study of complex terrain flows. Acoustic scattering theory is presented first and then interpreted using a simpolified second-order turbulence closure scheme. The use of this theory suggests the strong sensitivity of acoustic scatter to changes in the wind shear. With this introduction, detailed sodar facsimile records, temperature and wind profiles, and model calculations follow. Characteristic scattering patterns are described for simple drainage jets, complex basin flows, convection with a capping inversion, stratus, and dynamical instabilities. Examples are also shown of bistatic facsimile records detailing the strong temporal and spatial variability in small-scale turbulence.
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Neff, W.D. Observations of complex terrain flows using acoustic sounders: Echo interpretation. Boundary-Layer Meteorol 42, 207–228 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00123813
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00123813