EAE5022 - General circulation of the atmosphere - 2019

This unit provides an introduction to the large-scale circulation features of the atmosphere and the processes that maintain them. Students will be introduced to a set of mathematical tools that will be used to analyse the transport of energy, momentum and moisture through the atmosphere and to build a conceptual picture for how these transports are achieved by the atmospheric circulation. The unit will also touch on how the large-scale atmospheric circulation may respond to climate change, and students will be given the opportunity to engage with the scientific literature on this topic.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Apply the various analysis techniques used to estimate the atmospheric thermodynamic state and large-scale circulation and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses.
2. Appraise the main features of the atmospheric circulation and the processes that contribute to their maintenance.
3. Apply mathematical tools to analyse the transports of energy, momentum and water through the atmosphere.
4. Critically engage with the scientific literature regarding the large-scale atmospheric circulation and its possible changes under climate change.

Assignments: 30%

Research paper review: 20%

Examination (2 hours): 50%

This unit is offered at both Level 4 and Level 5, differentiated by the level of the assessment. Students enrolled in EAE5022 will be expected to demonstrate a higher level of learning in this subject than those enrolled in EAE4022. The assignments and exam in this unit will use some common items from the EAE4022 assessment tasks, in combination with several higher level questions and tasks.

A total of 12 hours per week comprising:

• Two 1.5-hour lectures
• Three hours per week on assignments, reports and preparation of a talk
• Six hours of independent study

See also Unit timetable information

Master of Science in Atmospheric Science