| Low-level marine boundary later stratocumulus clouds cover approximately one third of the world ocean and contribute to control of Earth's radiation budget and climate. In situ aircraft measurements and satellite observations taken during a summertime field experiment offshore of central Oregon provide data for analysis of stratocumulus structure. Vertical profiles of thermodynamic parameters: liquid water content, total mixing ratio of water vapor and liquid water, absolute and wet-bulb potential temperatures, as well as shortwave and longwave radiative forcing and vertical velocity are examined. Based on profiles of those parameters, vertical soundings are classified as well-mixed cases or cases with strong evidence of radiative forcing or influenced by precipitation. |
