ATM1030 - The science of weather

Leader: Dr Lyle Pakula

Offered

Clayton First semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit examines the physical processes that produce our weather. Weather phenomena such as tropical cyclones, tornadoes, lightning, bushfires and hailstorms will be covered. The unit will also explore the hydrological cycle and pollution. Ocean phenomena such as currents, waves and tsunamis will be presented as well as discussion on how the weather is forecast.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will understand; the large scale circulation of the atmosphere and ocean and how these circulations lead to smaller scale phenomena; the motion of water through the atmosphere including the formation of precipitation; the fundamentals of air and ocean pollution; the basic mechanics of weather phenomena such as frontal passages, tropical cyclones, tornadoes and lightning; how weather forecasts are made; basic ocean processes such as currents, waves and tsunamis. At the completion of the unit students will demonstrate competence in information technology, data handling, laboratory skills, communication skills and team work as appropriate for the discipline of atmospheric science.

Assessment

Final Examination (three hours): 50%
In-semester tests and laboratories: 50%

Contact hours

Three 1-hour lectures per week, one two-hour laboratory/support class per week, plus private study/research time.

Prohibitions

ATM1010