Cloud Versus Void Chord Length Distributions (LvL) as a Measure for Cloud Field Organization.

Cloud organization impacts the radiative effects and precipitation patterns of the cloud field. Deviating from randomness, clouds exhibit either clustering or a regular grid structure, characterized by the spacing between clouds and the cloud size distribution. The two measures are coupled but do not fully define each other. Here, we present the deviation from randomness of the cloud‐ and void‐chord length distributions as a measure for both factors. We introduce the LvL representation and an associated 2D score that allow for unambiguously quantifying departure from well‐defined baseline randomness in cloud spacing and sizes. This approach demonstrates sensitivity and robustness in classifying cloud field organization types. Its delicate sensitivity unravels the temporal evolution of a single cloud field, providing novel insights into the underlying governing processes. Plain Language Summary: The spatial arrangement of clouds within a cloud field plays a significant role in influencing the field's radiative effects, cloud properties, and precipitation patterns. Thus, cloud organization, determined by both cloud spacing and sizes, is a critical aspect to consider. Here, we introduce a novel 2D method, termed the LvL space, that assesses cloud field organization by integrating these key factors. This approach utilizes a unified mathematical metric and reference standard to measure both cloud spacing and cloud sizes. Its sensitivity and robustness are evident in accurately classifying different types of cloud field organization and tracking their evolution over time. Such a metric captures intricate dynamic processes and contributes to a deeper understanding of cloud pattern formation and evolution. Through better quantifying cloud organization, the LvL can potentially enhance our understanding of cloud feedback mechanisms. Key Points: Cloud field organization is expressed as a tendency toward regularity or clusteringThe cloud‐chord Length versus void‐chord Length (LvL) space is introduced as a 2D cloud field organization metricThe LvL representation measures organization in terms of spacing between clouds and the cloud size distribution [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]