Linking snowpack microphysics and albedo evolution (original) (raw)

2006, Journal of Geophysical Research

Snow aging causes reflectance to vary significantly on timescales of days. This variability influences the strength of snow-albedo feedback, and can affect the timing of snowmelt. However, climate models have yet to incorporate important controls on snow aging and albedo evolution. We develop a physically-based model that predicts evolution of dry, pure-snow specific surface area, and apply aspherical ice particle theory to link these results with albedo evolution. This is the first theoretical study to quantify the relative roles of initial size distribution, vertical temperature gradient, and snow density in snow albedo evolution. Vapor diffusion caused by curvature differences causes rapid albedo decay in the first day following snowfall. Vertical temperature gradient generally dominates grain growth processes afterward, but is modulated by snow density, irregularity in particle spacing, and temperature. These processes operate as a coupled system, which we uniquely represent without abrupt transitions between regimes.

Sign up for access to the world's latest research.

checkGet notified about relevant papers

checkSave papers to use in your research

checkJoin the discussion with peers

checkTrack your impact