ATM1020 - The science of climate

Leader(s): Professor Christian Jakob

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

Climate change is an area of modern science with a very high public profile and important implications for people, society and environment. This unit examines natural climate variability, human-induced climate change, and the controversies surrounding our effect on climate.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will understand: the application of conservation of energy to the earth/atmosphere system and how it defines the earth's climate; the physical processes that have a significant impact on the climate; the response of the atmosphere and ocean radiative forcing; the role of the atmosphere and ocean in climate variability; how human activity, since the industrial revolution, has affected the climate; how these basic scientific principles are turned into modern climate models. Students will also be able to 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 (3 hours): 50%
In-semester tests and laboratories: 50%

Contact hours

Three 1-hour lectures per week, one 2-hour laboratory/support class per week, plus private study/research time.

Prohibitions

ATM1010