Atmospheric Physics
Syllabus, Master's level, 1ME401
- Code
- 1ME401
- Education cycle
- Second cycle
- Main field(s) of study and in-depth level
- Earth Science A1N, Physics A1N
- Grading system
- Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with credit (4), Pass with distinction (5)
- Finalised by
- The Faculty Board of Science and Technology, 20 April 2015
- Responsible department
- Department of Earth Sciences
Entry requirements
120 credits including 35 credits in mathematics and 35 credits in physics
Learning outcomes
After the course the student shall be able to
- apply thermodynamics on dry and humid air
- determine if the atmosphere is stable or unstable from a vertical temperature profile
- describe how precipitation is created
- explain how motion (wind) is created in the atmosphere
Content
Application of the basic equations of fluid dynamics on atmospheric flow. The relation between the distributions of wind, pressure and temperature. Scale analysis of atmospheric motions. Basic kinematics. Continuity equation. Bjerknes circluation and vorticity theorems and their application on atmospheric otions. The influence of the earth's surface on the atmosphere. The properties of the dry and humid air. Thermodynamic diagrams. Height determination from radiosoundings. Methods for stability analusis. Cloud formation processes and the properties of clouds. Precipitation processes.
Instruction
Lectures, practical assignments and project work
Assessment
Two written examinations in atmospehric dynamics (7.5 credits) and atmospheric thermodynamics (6 credits), presentations of project work (oral and written) and practical assignment (written) (1.5 credits)