(i) To review the basic nature of the atmosphere in terms of its overall physical properties and chemical composition. (ii) To introduce a range of physical laws relevant in meteorology such as the first law of thermodynamics and the equation of state. (iii) To review cloud microphysics and cloud formation processes as they relate to atmospheric thermodynamics. (iv) To introduce the basic radiation laws and radiative transfer processes in the atmosphere.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module the student should be able to:
Understand basic concepts of atmospheric composition and fundamental laws governing gas concentrations, and be able to conduct unit conversions
Gain the knowledge of fundamental laws and processes of atmospheric physics within the scopes of thermodynamics, atmospheric stability, microphysical cloud processes, and radiative transfer
Quantify the change of physical state of an air parcel experiencing adiabatic process in the troposphere
Interpret change of weather elements using the learnt physical and/or meteorological processes
Identify dominating processes in warm and cold clouds
Calculate radiative heat fluxes and equilibrium temperature for simple cases
Assessment: 1) Three exercises (3 x 10% + 1 x 20%); 2) a 2-hour exam paper (50%).
Reassessment: A second attempt is allowed, if the module mark is below 50, for those components of which the marks are below 50. Normally, 1) To resubmit failed exercise(s) before the supplementary exam period; 2) To resit the exam in the next available opportunity, e.g. the supplementary exam period, which is centrally timetabled.
