Urban Fluid Mechanics: Thermal Circulation in Complex Terrain

Arizona State University, Scottsdale AZ

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract CTS-0001952 H. J. S. Fernando, Arizona State University The terrain conditions, as well as the strong diurnal heating/cooling cycles experienced in the southwest region of the US, can lead to significant pollution concentrations. Understanding the natural atmospheric flows that are associated with the interplay of the terrain and the buoyancy effects is a prerequisite to mitigating the harmful effects of automotive/industrial/domestic sources of released pollutants. It is expected that this integrated study: laboratory experiments, theoretical modeling, and field experiments, will lead to the enhanced understanding that may permit controlled actions to lessen the effects of the pollutants. It is also expected that this investigation will show the benefits of such a well-coordinated investigation and that future studies will benefit from the evolved methodology.