6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL
Undergraduate - Unit
Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.
Faculty
Organisational Unit
School of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment
Chief examiner(s)
Coordinator(s)
Unit guides
Synopsis
This unit examines atmospheric thermodynamics and dynamics, including cloud processes, the dynamics and prediction of severe storms (including tornadoes and tropical cyclones), the structure and evolution of extra-tropical cyclones and their associated fronts, and the techniques used in forecasting the day-to-day weather.
Outcomes
On completion of this unit students will be able to:
- Understand the basic physical theories of atmospheric processes, including the dynamics of motion and atmospheric thermodynamics;
- Relate the theories with the development and structure of real-life weather systems,including severe storms, tornadoes and tropical cyclones. Use the resulting techniques for forecasting day-to-day weather;
- Understand the formation of clouds;
- Distinguish and classify different cloud types;
- Develop, apply, integrate and generate knowledge to analyse and solve problems in atmospheric physics;
- Collect, organise, analyse and interpret quantitative information meaningfully using mathematical and statistical tools.
Assessment
Assignments and practicals: 30%
Tests: 20%
Examination (2 hours): 50%
Workload requirements
- Three hours of lectures
- One 2-hour tutorial per week
See also Unit timetable information