Gaussian Plume Model and Dispersion Coefficients

Author: John M. Cimbala, Penn State University

Latest revision: 30 January 2018
Procedure to calculate the dispersion coefficients σy and σz :
1. Determine the Stability Classification of the atmosphere, A, B, … using Table 1.
2. Determine constants a, b, …, f using Table 2.
3. Calculate σy and σz : σ y = ax b and σ
= z cx d + f , with x in units of km and σy and σz in units of m.

Gaussian plume model to estimate mass concentration of air pollutant at location (x, y, z):
   2  2 
m j , s  1 y z − H   
With ground absorption, j= c exp  − +
     , H= hs + δ h = effective stack height,
2π U σ yσ z 2 
   σ y  σ z   
where hs is the actual stack height, δh is the additional plume elevation due to buoyancy of the plume.

m j , s     z − H   
2 2     z + H   
2 2
exp − 1  y   1 y 
=
With ground reflection, cj
  +   + exp −   +     .
2π U σ yσ z   2  σ y   σ     2 σ   σ   
 z
   y z


Tables made from Cooper, C. D. and Alley, F. C. Air Pollution Control: A Design Approach, Edition 4, Waveland Press, Inc.,
Long Grove, IL, 2011, pp. 662-663.