New RAMS cloud microphysics parameterization part I: the single-moment scheme

A new cloud microphysical parameterization is described. Features of this new scheme include: the use of generalized gamma distributions as the basis function for all hydrometeor species; the use of a heat budget equation for hydrometeor classes, allowing heat storage and mixed phase hydrometears; partitioning hydrometeors into seven classes (including separate graupel and hail categories) ; the use of stochastic collection rather than continuous accretion approximations and extension of the ice nucleation scheme to include homogeneous nucleation of ice from haze particles and cloud droplets. The versatility and credibility of the new scheme is explored, using sensitivity experiments for a simple two-dimensional convective cloud simulation.