Introductory Meteorology & Climate (ACM 10050)
Stage 1 Module
- Credits: 5
- Level: 1
- Semester: 1
- Subject: Applied and Computational Mathematics
- School: Mathematical Sciences
- Module Coordinator: Dr. Conor Sweeney
Lecture Topics
- Introduction to the Atmosphere
- The Energy Cycle
- Temperature
- Water in the Atmosphere
- Observing the Atmosphere
- Atmospheric Forces and Wind
- Global-Scale Winds
- Tropical Cyclones
- Air Masses and Fronts
- Extratropical Cyclones and Anticyclones
- Thunderstorms and Tornadoes
- Small-Scale Winds
- Weather Forecasting
Outline
This course provides an introduction to meteorology and climate. The vertical
structure of the atmosphere is considered first and the key physical and
dynamical processes are described. The motion of the atmosphere is driven by
solar radiation. The interaction between sunlight and the constituents of the
atmosphere is considered. Global patterns of temperature, pressure, humidity
and clouds are discussed in terms of the basic physical processes. The
structure of mid-latitude frontal depressions is considered, with practical
examples drawn from real-time data. The factors important in climate change
are examined in detail. Finally, we touch upon the means of simulating and
predicting climate change using computer models.
What will I learn?
On completion of the module, students will be able to:
- Describe the basic structure of the atmosphere.
- Give an account of the balance of forces, and of the general circulation.
- Explain the balance between incoming and outgoing radiation.
- Describe the structure of a typical extra-tropical depression.
- Access real-time meteorological data and interpret it.
- Prepare basic qualitative weather predictions.
- Understand the important processes in climate change.
Recommended Textbook
Meteorology: Understanding the Atmosphere (any edition)
by: Stephen A Ackerman & John A Knox
