This course covers the workings of the earth's atmosphere at a range
of scales, from small-scale processes operating within clouds, up to regional
and global circulation systems. Each lecture begins with explanation of
a basic set of principles that operate in the atmosphere (such as energy
transfer, or the forces acting on winds), then uses those principles to
explain atmospheric phenomena, such as thunderstorms or tropical
cyclones. Although the promary emphasis is on explanation, lectures also
include a wide range of illustrative material (satellite images, photographs,
and videos) to bring the subject to life. In-class demonstrations
of physical processes are included wherever possible, to make the physics
more accessible. Although no prior knowledge of physics is required, you
will need to think through the course material to make sure you undrtand
the material on a more than superficial level.
Questions and answers
If you have questions about any aspect of the course, email me at doug@st-and.ac.uk
I will send the reply to the whole class, but without revealing the identity of who asked the question.
Essays should be 3,000 - 4,000 words in length, on any aspect of the atmosphere. Students must agree their topic with Dr Benn before beginning work.
Essay Deadline: Friday 2nd May, 5.00 pm
Suggested essay topics are as follows:
(1) Discuss the influence of the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau on weather
and climate in Asia.
(2) Examine the causes and effects of El Niño-Southern Oscillation,
with particular reference to the 1997-1998 El Niño event.
(3) Examine the ways in which vegetation interacts with the atmosphere
to create distinctive microclimates.
(4) How has climate change affected human history?