Anticipated increases in computing power and in the resolution of data collected through the global observational networks will allow the use of higher resolution and more precise representation of physical processes in models of the global general circulation. With the greater resolution, it may no longer be necessary or reasonable to employ the hydrostatic approximation; indeed, for many purposes, explicit representation of small scale vertical accelerations of the flow will be required. Experience with limited-area nonhydrostatic models indicates that the added computational load goes well beyond the increase in the number of model grid points. Drs. Semazzi and Scroggs will incorporate a suite of recently developed numerical techniques, which provide greater computational efficiency and accuracy, into a proof-of-concept global model. They will assess the feasibility of using high-resolution nonhydrostatic computation in global forecast models. They also hope to learn more about the role of nonhydrostatic processes in the global atmospheric circulation. Operational numerical prediction systems of the early 20th century as well as various research models are likely to be quite similar to those developed under this project. The development of efficient, accurate computational methods is critical. This results of this project will make it possible to exploit advances in computing and observing technology and in model development in the future.
