Physics of Climate (U01865)

? Credit Points : 10 ? SCQF Level : 10 ? Acronym : GEO-4-MYPC

The course introduces the principal physics of climate and climate modelling, focussing on Earth. It explains the observed distribution of temperature, in relation to the fluxes of energy and matter through the climate system, and considers the external and internal factors (both human and natural) which cause climatic change and variablity.

Entry Requirements

? Pre-requisites : At least 40 points at level 9/10 from schedule Q, OR at least 40 points at level 9/10 from schedule N which must include Mathematical Methods for Geophysicists (U01800).

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Meteorology, (School of GeoSciences, Schedule N)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 4th year

? Delivery Period : Semester 2 (Blocks 3-4)

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 11 weeks

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Tuesday	14:00	14:50	KB
Lecture	Friday	14:00	14:50	KB

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

- To view the climate system as one which, although it is far too complex to represent exactly in mathematical terms, may nevertheless be modelled using physical principles.

- To be able to describe the various types of climate models and to understand the uses and limitations of each type. Specifically, the student should be familiar with zero-dimensional energy-balance models, zonal energy balance models, one-dimensional radiative-convective models of the atmosphere, and general circulation models.

- To be able to write down and solve the equations of a zero-dimensional enegy balance model, with various types of feedback.

- To understand the meaning of the term "Climate sensitivity" and to be able to calculate it for a zero-dimensional enegy balance model.

- To be able to extend a zero-dimensional enegy balance model to form a zonal energy balance model, by parametrizing the transport of heat between latitudes. To be able to solve the resulting equation numerically, either as a simple iterative process or by casting it as a partial differential equation (PDE)

- To understand how a PDE (and hence many climate models) may be solved numerically

- To understand how radiation travels through the atmosphere and how it is absorbed and emitted.

- To be able to explain how the atmosphere causes the greenhouse effect

- To be able to explain the principles of a radiative-convective model of the atmosphere and to understand what use may be made of such a model

- To be able to explain the principles of a general circulation model of the atmosphere and to understand what use may be made of such a model

- To be familiar with some of the uses of climate models, such as the understanding of paleoclimates and the prediction of anthropogenic climate change