Exploring a global multiresolution modeling approach using aquaplanet simulations

Results from aquaplanet experiments performed using the Model for Prediction across Scales (MPAS) hydrostatic dynamical core implemented within the Department of Energy (DOE)-NCAR Community Atmosphere Model (CAM) are presented. MPAS is an unstructured-grid approach to climate system modeling that supports both quasi-uniform and variable-resolution meshing of the sphere based on conforming grids. Using quasi-uniform simulations at resolutions of 30, 60, 120, and 240 km, the authors evaluate the performance of CAM-MPAS via its kinetic energy spectra, general circulation, and precipitation characteristics. By analyzing an additional variable-resolution simulation with grid spacing that varies from 30 km in a spherical, continental-sized equatorial region to 240 km elsewhere, the CAM-MPAS’s potential for use as a regional climate simulation tool is explored. Similar to other quasi-uniform aquaplanet simulations, tropical precipitation increases with resolution, indicating the resolution sensitivity of the physical parameterizations. Comparison with the finite volume (FV) dynamical core suggests a weaker tropical circulation in the CAM-MPAS simulations, which is evident in reduced tropical precipitation and a weaker Hadley circulation. In the variable-resolution simulation, the kinetic energy spectrum within the high-resolution region closely resembles the quasi-uniform 30-km simulation, indicating a robust simulation of the fluid dynamics. As suggested by the quasi-uniform simulations, the CAM4 physics behave differently in the high and low resolution regions. A positive precipitation anomaly occurs on the western edge of the high-resolution region, exciting a Gill-type response; this zonal asymmetry represents the errors incurred in a variable resolution setting. When paired with a multiresolution mesh, the aquaplanet test case offers an exceptional opportunity to examine the response of physical parameterizations to grid resolution.