A Stochastic Parameterization of Non-Orographic Gravity Waves Induced Mixing for Mars Planetary Climate Model

Abstract

This paper presents a formalism of mixing induced by non-orographic gravity waves (GWs) to integrate with the stochastic GWs scheme in the Mars Planetary Climate Model. We derive the formalism of GWs and their mixing under the same assumptions, integrating the two schemes within a unified framework. Specifically, a surface-to-exosphere parameterization of GW-induced turbulence has been derived in terms of the eddy diffusion coefficient. Simulations show that the coefficient is on the order of 1E4 to 1E9 cm2 s-1 and a turbopause is at altitudes of 70 to 140 km, varying with seasons. The triggered mixing has minor effects on model temperatures, yet it substantially impacts upper atmospheric abundances. Simulations are consistent with observations from the Mars Climate Sounder and the Neutral Gas and Ion Mass Spectrometer. Mixing enhances the tracer transports in the middle and upper atmosphere, governing the dynamics of these regions. The scheme reveals how non-orographic GW-induced turbulence can regulate upper atmospheric processes, such as tracer escape.

This paper has been published at JGR-planets

References in corpus (3)

• High-altitude gravity waves in the Martian thermosphere observed by MAVEN/NGIMS and modeled by a gravity wave scheme
• Dust storm-enhanced gravity wave activity in the Martian thermosphere observed by MAVEN and implication for atmospheric escape
• Study of gravity waves distribution and propagation in the thermosphere of Mars based on MGS, ODY, MRO and MAVEN density measurements

Cited by in corpus (2)

• Understanding hydrodynamical wave-driven shear mixing in stellar radiation zones. Looking in the mirror of the dyapicnal oceanic mixing
• High-Latitude Zonal Jets in the Martian Upper Atmosphere Driven by Non-Orographic Gravity Waves