Snow temperature studies and apparatus at the Soda Springs, California cooperative snow research project

Submitted by Armida on Fri, 02/15/2013 - 16:48
TitleSnow temperature studies and apparatus at the Soda Springs, California cooperative snow research project
Publication TypeConference Proceedings
Year of Conference1944
AuthorsGerdel, R. W.
Conference Name12th Annual Western Interstate Snow Survey Conference
Series TitleProceedings of the 12th Annual Western Interstate Snow Survey Conference
Date PublishedFebruary 1944
PublisherAmerican Geophysical Union, Transactions, Part I:
Conference LocationBerkeley, California
KeywordsSnow cover thermal effects, Snow temperature
Abstract

Errors in the application of glass stemmed mercury thermometers, electrical resistance thermometers (thermohms) thermocouples, and the Bouyoucos liquid resistance thermometers are presented. Heat adsorbed and conducted to the temperature element by the electrical leads is a principal source of error, and was effectively eliminated by fastening the temperature elements to a strand of No. 9 galvanized iron wire suspended between 2 posts 8 feet apart. Subsequently, temperature measurements were made in the snow pack above the soil surface and wires at 1-foot intervals for 12 feet in height. Measurements in the first 10 inches below the snow surface were affected by solar radiation and fluctuation in the ambient air temperature. The data indicated that the soil temperature and the temperature in the snowpack remained approximately 32deg F even though air temperatures of below zero deg F were observed. Photographs of the experimental area and the wires for holding elements are shown.