An introduction to physical processes that govern the behavior of the atmosphere. Topics will include atmospheric thermodynamics; absorption, scattering and radiative transfer; convective motion, tropospheric chemistry, and cloud and precipitation development; and atmospheric electricity. Satisfies the meteorology distribution requirement for the ATM M.S. program. Students enrolled in ATM 501 will be held to a higher standard than those enrolled in ATM 401.
COURSE PREREQUISITES:
Calculus through differential equations and calculus-based physics
ObjectiveS:
Introduce student to the concepts and mathematics pertinent to topics in Atmospheric Physics as preparation for graduate–level study in specialized courses dealing with specific areas of Atmospheric Physics.
Help students learn the arts of posing and solving problems, presenting results, and leading discussions.
OUTCOMES:Following the course the student should be able to:
read published material dealing with atmospheric physics with understanding and comprehension;
solve problems in various areas of atmospheric physics, such as thermodynamics, hydrostatics, atmospheric radiation, and cloud physics;
be a participating member of a group of colleagues tasked to solve a problem or problems in areas related to atmospheric physics; present results of work in an informal setting in front of colleagues in an understandable manner;
TEXT:Atmospheric Science: An Introductory Survey, by J. M. Wallace and Peter V. Hobbs. (Supplementary material will be provided where appropriate.)
Chapters covered:
Chapter 3:Atmospheric Thermodynamics
Chapter 4:Radiative Transfer
Chapter 5:Atmospheric Chemistry
Chapter 6:Cloud Microphysics
Chapter 9:Atmospheric Boundary Layer
INSTRUCTIONAL METHODS:
Classroom lecture presentation, classroom problem solving, homework exercises followed by classroom discussion
EXAMINATIONS:
Mid-term Exam – 9:35 AM Thursday, October 22, MI 222
Final Exam – noon Friday, December 18, MI 222
GRADING:Homework problems - 40%
Presentation skills - 10%
Mid-term Examination – 20%
Final Examination – 30%
Participation in class discussion will be used to make a determination on borderline grades.
Students enrolled in ATM 401 will have to complete fewer questions on the mid-term and final exams.
USE of ELECRONIC DEVICES:
Use of programmable calculators, use of Excel spreadsheets, and use of other scientific software available on campus such as MathCad, MatLab, IDL, etc., is encouraged while solving homework problems and reviewing classroom material. Examinations will be designed to be done using no more than a programmable calculator.
ATTENDANCE POLICY:
Attendance by everyone is expected for each class. There will be unavoidable conflicts with medical and family issues, job interviews, etc. Please let me know in advance, if possible, that you will be missing a class. Much of the material discussed in class comes directly from the text or from other material that will be handed around in paper form, or posted to the class web site. You will be responsible for mastering material presented in the classes you miss, with help from the text, supplemental material, and your classmates.
OFFICE HOURS:Students are welcome to stop by any time I am in my office or you may make an appointment by talking to me after class, by emailing, or by calling 394-1995.My office is in the MI building, Room 210.
FREEDOM IN LEARNING: Under Board of Regents and University policy student academic performance may be evaluated solely on an academic basis, not on opinions or conduct in matters unrelated to academic standards. Students should be free to take reasoned exception to the data or views offered in any course of study and to reserve judgment about matters of opinion, but they are responsible for learning the content of any course of study for which they are enrolled. Students who believe that an academic evaluation reflects prejudiced or capricious consideration of student opinions or conduct unrelated to academic standards should contact the dean of the college which offers the classto initiate a review of the evaluation.
SPECIAL NEEDS:Students with special needs or requiring special accommodations should contact the instructor, Dr. Andy Detwiler, at 394-1995 and/or the campus ADAcoordinator, Ms. Jolie McCoy at 394-1924 at the earliest opportunity.
