This guide introduces the field of Air Dispersion Meteorology to environment and development professionals who might be taking up projects in this field in the near future. It builds on the guide "Air Dispersion Modeling- An Introduction" and provides invaluable training and practical tips for the field. Take it with you on your smartphone, tablet and laptop and keep this guide handy.
Meteorology[1] is fundamental for the dispersion of pollutants because, the ground-level concentrations (GLC) of pollutants are primarily controlled by two meteorological elements:
Therefore, it is important that meteorology is carefully considered when modeling. The meteorological data requirements for steady-state Gaussian-plume models and advanced dispersion models vary considerably. Steady-state Gaussian-plume models require meteorology data from a single surface station. They assume that the single station data are applicable to the whole modeling domain up to the top of the boundary layer and that conditions do not vary with height.
Advanced dispersion models - including puff, particle and grid models - allow meteorological conditions to vary across the modeling domain and up through the atmosphere. This is a much more complex situation than for steady-state modeling and thus requires much more complex meteorological data.
In this guide, we will be discussing the primary and derived meteorological variables used in the steady-state Gaussian-plume models. The wind speed, wind direction, temperature, temperature difference, humidity, precipitation, pressure, and solar radiation are considered primary in that they are generally measured directly. The derived variables are atmospheric stability, mixing height, and turbulence.
_______________________________________________________
[1] Meteorology is the interdisciplinary scientific study of the atmosphere
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The guide is sponsored by Envitrans.com, a renowned consultant in India in this field. You are welcome to partner with Global Learning School to publish your own guides, white papers and training modules on this platform and help grassroots professionals in tackling the most difficult societal and environmental problems in the field using your products and services. Email us at ien@paryavaran.com to get started.