Analytic derivation of Monin-Obukhov similarity function for open atmospheric surface layer

The Monin-Obukhov(MO)similarity functionφm of the atmospheric surface layer(ASL)describing the deviation from the log law of the canonical turbulent boundary layer because of thermal stratification has been traditionally determined empirically.This study presents a unified analytic expression derived from a symmetry-based theory of wall turbulence,called structural ensemble dynamics(SED),which postulates a generalized dilation symmetry principle expressing the effect of the wall on turbulence,leading to an analytic multi-regimes expression for the mixing length.For ASL in unstable and stable conditions(i.e.,UC and SC),a unified two-regime formula of the mixing length is proposed,leading to aφm,similar to the Businger-Dyer(BD)formula;with a simplified model energy balance equation,φm is completely specified with no free parameter.Furthermore,the theory allows the study of the open ASL’s underlying additional physical processes such as bottom-up or top-down flux due to pressure variations Tp.Assuming that Tp is decomposed into shear-like and buoyancy-like components,we propose new explanations for two important features of typical ASL:a significantly smaller Karman constant of 0.36 and a varyingφm for SC mean speed profiles.The theory is validated by the data obtained at Kansas and also at Qingtu Lake Observation Array in Northern China for a variety of heat flux conditions.In conclusion,due to pressure variations,we assert that ASL is intrinsically open and that the current theory offers a new basis for its quantification.