Insights on Arctic Clouds from Professor Alexander Khain

By manhalseminar

On September 8, 2023, the Graduate School of Information Science at the University of Hyogo was honored to host Professor Alexander Khain, a distinguished researcher from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The seminar, held both in-person in Kobe Campus’s Computational Science Center Building, and virtually via Zoom, drew a global audience keen to learn about his latest research.

Seminar Overview:

Title: Combined effect of the Weber-Bergeron-Findeisen mechanism and large eddies on Arctic clouds: Why are Arctic stratocumulus clouds mixed-phase and stable?

Authors: Alexander Khain, Mark Pinsky, and Alexei Korolev

Key Insights from the Seminar:

Professor Khain’s seminar focused on several significant aspects of cloud physics and Arctic climate interactions:

  • Novel Modeling Approach: The research utilized a sophisticated Lagrangian–Eulerian model to track thousands of air parcels within the Arctic boundary layer, a new approach providing deeper insight into cloud dynamics.

  • Microphysics and Cloud Dynamics: Discussion included how droplets, ice particles, and aerosols interact and evolve in mixed-phase stratocumulus clouds, significantly affected by atmospheric turbulence and large eddies.

  • Impact of Large Eddies: Large atmospheric eddies were shown to play a crucial role in maintaining the mixed-phase condition of Arctic clouds, influencing both the longevity and stability of these cloud systems.

  • Role of the Wegener–Bergeron–Findeisen Mechanism: The seminar highlighted the efficiency of the Wegener–Bergeron–Findeisen (WBF) mechanism under different conditions, crucial for understanding cloud glaciation processes.

Discussion and Q&A:

The presentation was followed by a vibrant discussion and Q&A session, where attendees engaged with Professor Khain on the implications of his findings and potential future research directions.

We extend our gratitude to Professor Khain for his insightful presentation and thank all participants for their engaging questions and contributions to a successful seminar.