6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL
Undergraduate, Postgraduate - 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
Dynamical meteorology concerns itself with the causes of atmospheric motion. The unit begins with a scale analysis of the equations of motion for mid latitude weather systems, which leads to the most important theoretical development modern meteorology - the quasi-geostrophic theory. This theory and its generalisation are used to explain Rossby waves and their interaction with the mean state, the development of extratropical cyclones, the causes of vertical motion, and the structure and evolution of cold fronts. The theory for gravity waves is developed also.
Outcomes
On completion of this unit students will be able to:
- Understand the dynamical principles governing the fluid flow in a rotating frame of reference;
- Apply these principles to explain the dynamics of many common mid latitude weather systems;
- Demonstrate a high level of knowledge of the important mathematical techniques used to solve problems in mid latitude dynamics;
- Read, understand and critically analyse the scientific literature on mid latitude dynamics.
Assessment
NOTE: From 1 July 2019, the duration of all exams is changing to combine reading and writing time. The new exam duration for this unit is 2 hours and 10 minutes.
Assignments: 30%
Research paper review: 30%
Examination (2 hours): 40%
Workload requirements
A total of 12 hours per week comprising:
- three 1-hour lectures;
- three hours per week on assignments, reports and preparation of a talk;
- six hours of independent study.
See also Unit timetable information
This unit applies to the following area(s) of study
Master of Science in Atmospheric Science