MTMW20-Global Circulation of the Atmosphere & Ocean
Module Provider: Meteorology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: MTMW11 Fluid Dynamics of the Atmosphere and Oceans
Modules excluded:
Module version for: 2017/8
Module Convenor: Dr David Brayshaw
Email: d.j.brayshaw@reading.ac.uk
Summary module description:
This module provides an overview of the main observed large scale Features of the atmospheric and oceanic circulations, and of the simple dynamical theories rationalising them.
Aims:
To develop a knowledge and understanding of the large-scale circulation of the atmosphere and ocean.
Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of this module the student should be able to:
• Describe and quantify aspects of the large-scale circulation of the atmosphere and ocean;
• Demonstrate understanding of relevant theoretical concepts and models;
• Apply theoretical and modelling tools to analyse and physially interpret the behaviour of key aspects of the large scale atmospheric and ocean circulation.
Outline content:
1 - Introduction to Planet Earth Basic properties and circulation drivers (radiation, rotation). Basic equations (momentum/vorticity, thermodynamic, mass conservation). Composition and equations of state. An overview of observes structure;
2 - Energy and angular momentum budgets Budgets and fluxes/transports. Decomposing fluxes: zonal and time averaging. Energy: thermodynamic energy equation and adiabatic conservation properties, budgets and fluxes. Angular momentum: budgets and fluxes. Applications: Hadley Cell in the atmosphere; Thermohaline circulation of the oceans. Other budgets;
3 - Ekman transports and wind driven ocean circulation Ekman transports and pumping. Sverdrup balance. A simple model of the wind driven ocean circulation and its extensions;
4 - Rossby waves Contrasting physical arguments for westward movement. Ocean Rossby waves. Atmospheric barotropic Rossby waves. Stationary Rossby waves in the atmosphere;
5 - Extratropical storm tracks Observation. Why do storm tracks exist? The meridonial circulation and the maintenance of the extra-tropical surface westerlies. Climate variability and change.
Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Lectures and problem classes.
Reading lists for meteorology modules are available here https://reading.rl.talis.com/departments/mps_met.htmlhttps://reading.rl.talis.com/departments/mps_met.html
Summative Assessment Methods:
| Method |
Percentage |
| Written assignment including essay |
10 |
| Class test administered by School |
90 |
Other information on summative assessment:
Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx
Length of examination:
2 hour exam. Answer Question 1 and either Question 2 or 3.
Requirements for a pass:
50% overall.
Reassessment arrangements:
For candidates who have failed, an opportunity to take a resit examination will be provided within the lifetime of the course.
Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books: 2) Specialist equipment or materials: 3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 4) Printing and binding: 5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:
Last updated: 31 March 2017