A diagnostic analysis of the momentum budget over the COARE Intensive Flux Array (IFA) is performed for the Intensive Observation Period. The contribution of the various terms of the large-scale momentum equation to parcel accelerations is evaluated. The role of cumulus convection in the vertical distribution of momentum is determined as a residual of the momentum equation.
Residuals are of comparable magnitude to the other terms of the momentum equation, highlighting the need for accurate parameterization of cumulus momentum transport in the tropics. The Lin and Johnson (1996) analysis, and the NCEP and ECMWF re-analyses are compared. Large differences in the momentum flux profiles exist between the different analyses.
Where cumulus momentum fluxes are down-gradient, damping times may be on the order of days, suggesting that cumulus momentum transport may be an important process in the dynamics of the intra-seasonal oscillation.