Validation and physical parametrization of a Gaussian climatological model applied to a complex site

Abstract

Seasonal SO2 average concentrations have been simulated in a topographically complex-coastal site, by means of a Gaussian type model. The model diffusion equation has been parametrized on the basis of the results from a series of field experiments conducted in the area to characterize the dynamic and thermodynamic properties of the local atmosphere. The validity of the adopted model formulation and physical parametrization has been discussed by comparing simulated and measured concentration values separately for unstable, neutral and stable situations, and by testing the model sensitivity with respect to changes in the parameters used. The analysis has shown that definition of the model physical parameters as indicated by the field experiments leads to a very satisfactory agreement between the calculated and measured concentrations. Therefore the model can be considered a suitable tool to implement air quality strategies in the area on a climatological basis. The study has been applied to the complex coastal site of La Spezia, Italy, for the period March 1975–February 1977