Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives In order to successfully complete this subject students will need to show that they have a comprehensive understanding of atmospheric radiation and air pollution processes in a range of environments, obtained both from formal class contact and from the wide body of scientific literature pertaining to these topics; can synthesise and interpret the relevant material in such a way that the important ideas and arguments can be coherently communicated to others at a reasonably advanced level, either by written or oral means; are familiar and proficient with a range of field techniques for measuring atmospheric transmissivity, atmospheric turbidity and other radiation parameters, along with methods of estimating or modelling these parameters when field observations are not possible; are familiar with field techniques for measuring atmospheric pollution and associated meteorological parameters and understand contemporary air pollution modelling methodologies and problems associated with these approaches; have developed a full appreciation of the role of field observations in studying atmospheric radiation and air pollution, along with the various problems associated with making these field measurements.
Synopsis This subject takes a practical and applied approach to some selected climatological and environmental problems. Topics dealt with can vary from year to year, but in 1996 two broad areas are covered. In the first section `atmospheric radiation, background theory and techniques', the astronomical relations that give rise to a unique solar zenith angle at a point-in-time are outlined initially, followed by a discussion of the theory of atmospheric depletion of the solar beam. Methods of calculating atmospheric transmissivity and turbidity are outlined, along with applications of the techniques. This section of the subject concludes with a discussion of atmospheric longwave radiation, including background theory and methods for measuring and estimating longwave radiation. In the second section, `air pollution meteorology and climatology' a broad discussion of the nature and history of air pollution is followed by a detailed discussion of meteorological conditions associated with elevated levels of air pollution. Various case studies from Australia and Southeast Asia are presented to illustrate different kinds of air pollution and local influences. The course concludes with a review of modelling approaches to the air pollution problem. Throughout the course the lecture material is integrated with appropriate practical work.
Assessment Written (4500 words): 55% + Examinations (3 hours): 40%) + Practical work: 5%