Can Extremely Low Wind Speeds Impact Weather Predictions and Climate Models?

In summary, the lowest wind speeds that can be measured depend on the sensitivity of the equipment and specialized equipment can measure wind speeds as low as 1 cm/s. Low wind speeds can have an impact on weather and climate, particularly in terms of humidity and air quality.
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tasp77
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How slow can wind blow on Earth (and elsewhere) before local obstructions (trees, hills, buildings) essentially stop it?

How low a wind velocity can be measured, and does the wind velocity spectrum extend to zero?

I was wondering about wind speeds in the 0 to 10 centimeter/second range. I was recently watching a small trash fire and I noticed the smoke plume was not quite vertical, but a nearby weather station anemometer was motionless. Are very low wind speeds (not stationary) important to weather predictions and climate models? (I'm thinking a very low velocity parcel of air would be more likely to saturate in humidity over a lake as opposed to wind moving over the lake at a higher speed).
 
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That's a great question! The lowest wind speed that can be measured depends on the sensitivity of the equipment being used. Generally, most anemometers can measure wind speeds as low as 0.1 meters per second (m/s) or 10 centimeters per second (cm/s). However, specialized equipment can measure even lower wind speeds, down to 0.01 m/s or 1 cm/s.

As for the wind velocity spectrum, it does extend to zero, but it becomes very rare to have wind speeds that low. Wind speeds are typically measured in a range that is most relevant to weather prediction and climate models, which is usually between 1 to 40 m/s.

However, even very low wind speeds can have an impact on weather and climate. As you mentioned, a low velocity parcel of air can have a higher chance of saturating in humidity over a lake, which can lead to changes in local weather patterns. Additionally, low wind speeds can also affect the distribution of pollutants and particles in the atmosphere, which can have implications for air quality.

Overall, while low wind speeds may not be as noticeable or impactful as strong winds, they are still an important factor to consider in weather and climate prediction.
 

Related to Can Extremely Low Wind Speeds Impact Weather Predictions and Climate Models?

What is low velocity wind physics?

Low velocity wind physics is the study of the behavior and characteristics of wind at speeds lower than 15 meters per second. This includes understanding the forces and motions involved in low velocity winds, as well as their impact on the environment and structures.

How is low velocity wind different from high velocity wind?

Low velocity wind refers to wind speeds below 15 meters per second, while high velocity wind refers to wind speeds above 15 meters per second. Low velocity wind is typically less turbulent and has a lower kinetic energy compared to high velocity wind, which can cause more damage and have a greater impact.

What factors affect low velocity wind?

There are several factors that can affect low velocity wind, including terrain, temperature, and pressure gradients. Terrain can create obstacles and change wind direction, while temperature and pressure differences can cause variations in wind speed and direction.

How is low velocity wind measured?

Low velocity wind is typically measured using anemometers, which are instruments that measure wind speed and direction. These can range from simple handheld devices to more advanced equipment such as sonic anemometers, which use sound waves to measure wind speed and direction.

What are the applications of low velocity wind physics?

Low velocity wind physics has many applications, including understanding the effects of wind on buildings and structures, predicting air pollution dispersion, and optimizing wind energy production. It also plays a role in weather forecasting and understanding climate patterns.

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