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In the past, derivative-based optimization algorithms have not frequently been used to calibrate conceptual rainfall -riff (CRR) models, partially due to difficulties associated with obtaining the required derivatives. This research applies a recently- developed technique of analytically computing derivatives of a CRR model to a complex, widely -used CRR model. The resulting least squares response surface was found to contain numerous discontinuities in the surface and derivatives. However, the surface and its derivatives were found to be everywhere finite, permitting the use of derivative -based optimization algorithms. Finite difference numeric derivatives were computed and found to be virtually identical to analytic derivatives. A comparison was made between gradient (Newton- Raphsoz) and direct (pattern search) optimization algorithms. The pattern search algorithm was found to be more robust. The lower robustness of the Newton-Raphsoi algorithm was thought to be due to discontinuities and a rough texture of the response surface.

Bibliography: leaves 132-153. / viii, 153 leaves : ill. ; 30 cm. / Title page, contents and abstract only. The complete thesis in print form is available from the University Library. / Spatially explicit models and computer intensive analysis were employed to explore how processes acting at the individual level scale up to population dynamics when processes are variable in space as well as the consequences of sampling spatially complex variability for drawing conclusions from limited ecological data. Dispersal and variation in marsupial mortality and development in relation to habitat selection and quality were studied, while evaluating spatially explicit models. The study of dynamics models of tick populations on sleepy lizards considered the effect of spatial and temporal variability, and demonstrated that counting ticks is a poor indicator of tick abundance. The "virtual ecologist" model is a useful method for linking the output of spatially explicit population models to reality, and will be a valuable approach for improving the design of ecological field research on spatially complex landscapes. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Adelaide, Dept. of Environmental Science and Management, 1999?

Bibliography: leaves 132-153. Spatially explicit models and computer intensive analysis were employed to explore how processes acting at the individual level scale up to population dynamics when processes are variable in space as well as the consequences of sampling spatially complex variability for drawing conclusions from limited ecological data. Dispersal and variation in marsupial mortality and development in relation to habitat selection and quality were studied, while evaluating spatially explicit models. The study of dynamics models of tick populations on sleepy lizards considered the effect of spatial and temporal variability, and demonstrated that counting ticks is a poor indicator of tick abundance. The "virtual ecologist" model is a useful method for linking the output of spatially explicit population models to reality, and will be a valuable approach for improving the design of ecological field research on spatially complex landscapes.

A time dependent model of the shallow, tropical convective boundary layer is developed and tested. To simplify the treatment of thermodynamic processes and return to first principles of physics, conserved quantities of entropy and total water density are used as primary model variables. In addition, a new shallow cumulus parameterization scheme is developed and is based on the use of a time dependent cloud kinetic energy equation combining local concepts of cloud processes with the use of a special buoyancy length scale. Two model simulations are performed in an attempt to assess the model's performance and the effectiveness of the parameterization scheme. Results indicate that the model does a reasonable job in both representing the equilibrium structure of a shallow convective boundary layer and in generating a realistic boundary layer structure from an initial state consisting of a shallow moist layer with dry air aloft. The cumulus parameterization scheme appears to adequately represent the transport of thermodynamic quantities associated with convective activity and the use of conserved variables provides an effective way of representing the boundary layer structure and treating the mixing processes associated with cloud processes. This work illustrates the usefulness of generalized conserved variables, particularly entropy and total water density, and indicates that the general approach of using a time dependent cloud kinetic energy equation may be effective for representing thermodynamic processes in the tropical boundary layer. / Graduation date: 1992