Which type of turbulence intensity is directly related to wind speed and roughness of the obstructions?

Mechanical turbulence is the type of turbulence intensity that is directly related to wind speed and the roughness of obstructions in the environment, such as buildings, trees, and terrain. When wind flows over these obstacles, it creates disturbances in the airflow, leading to varying intensity of turbulence. The stronger the wind speed and the rougher the terrain, the more significant the mechanical turbulence experienced will be.

In environments with high wind speeds, the effect of these obstructions becomes even more pronounced, leading to abrupt changes in wind direction and speed, which contributes to a turbulent atmosphere. This phenomenon is especially evident in urban areas and mountainous regions where the landscape significantly alters the wind flow.

Thermal turbulence, on the other hand, is created by warm air rising and cooler air descending, which is influenced more by temperature differences rather than wind speed or obstruction roughness. Clear air turbulence occurs at high altitudes, typically associated with jet streams and not directly tied to surface obstructions. Frontal turbulence arises from the interaction of different air masses, primarily at weather fronts, which is also not directly connected to roughness or speed of obstruction.