Atmospheric physics and the climate system

Summary

The course provides an introduction to the physical and dynamical processes that govern the atmosphere at small and large scales. The basis is laid for an in depth understanding of our atmospheric environment and the climate system.

Content

Keywords

Atmospheric Physics, Radiative Transfer, Weather, Climate, Clouds, Boundary Layer, Energy Balance, Sensors, Measurements

Learning Prerequisites

Recommended courses

ENV-200, ENV-221, ENG-272

Important concepts to start the course

• Differential, integral, and vector calculus

• Linear algebra

• Basic physics (Momentum Conservation, Dynamics)

• Basic programming

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the student must be able to:

• Compute simple atmospheric quantities
• Explain atmospheric phenomena
• Interpret atmospheric observations
• Identify similarities with other environmental fields
• Categorize important atmospheric scales
• Perform simple measurements of atmospheric variables
• Categorize important atmospheric processes at different scales
• Synthesize the main atmospheric processes
• Analyze observational meteorological data

Transversal skills

• Assess progress against the plan, and adapt the plan as appropriate.
• Plan and carry out activities in a way which makes optimal use of available time and other resources.
• Use a work methodology appropriate to the task.
• Evaluate one's own performance in the team, receive and respond appropriately to feedback.
• Demonstrate a capacity for creativity.
• Write a scientific or technical report.

Teaching methods

Lectures, Exercises, Laboratory (included in final written exam).

Expected student activities

Regularly attending lectures and exercises

Participation in a mandatory laboratory course (block session)

Complete exercises and practical work (computer projects and lab report)

Studying provided and indicated course material

Assessment methods

Written exam (50%)

Exercise assignments (35%)

Laboratory and report (15%)

Supervision

Resources

Bibliography

John M. Wallace and Peter V. Hobbs: Atmospheric Science, An Introductory Survey

Ken S. Carslaw (ed.): Aerosols and Climate, link

Notes/Handbook

See Moodle

Moodle Link

• https://go.epfl.ch/ENV-203

Prerequisite for

Atmospheric Chemistry (ENV-320)

Air Pollution (ENV-409)