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GEOL4267: Atmospheric Circulation and Dynamics IV

Please ensure you check the module availability box for each module outline, as not all modules will run in each academic year. Each module description relates to the year indicated in the module availability box, and this may change from year to year, due to, for example: changing staff expertise, disciplinary developments, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.

Type Open
Level 4
Credits 10
Availability Available in 2025/2026
Module Cap
Location Durham
Department Earth Sciences

Prerequisites

  • None

Corequisites

  • None

Excluded Combinations of Modules

  • GEOL3387 Atmospheric Circulation and Dynamics

Aims

  • To introduce fundamental principles of atmospheric circulation and dynamics, and the analysis of atmospheric data.

Content

  • Fundamentals of atmospheric motion.
  • Global energy budget and radiative transfer.
  • Structure and composition of the atmosphere.
  • Tropospheric and stratospheric circulation.
  • Atmospheric dispersion.
  • Climate modelling.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:

  • Explain the structure and circulation of the atmosphere, and how these are observed and modelled.
  • Describe how atmospheric processes may change in the future.

Subject-specific Skills:

  • Analyse and interpret atmospheric data from observations and from climate model simulations.

Key Skills:

  • Analyse data using Excel and/or programming.
  • Write clear and concise reports.
  • Acquire skills necessary for self-managed lifelong learning including independent research, critical analysis, and time management.
  • Identify and work towards targets for personal and academic development.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • This module will be delivered by the Department of Earth Sciences through flexible 3-hour sessions combining the lecture and practical, including discussion, and computer-based material.
  • The module will be assessed via one report, based on practical tasks worked on over several weeks, as well as one in-class test.
  • Practical sessions to promote advanced critical reasoning, scientific research, scientific writing skills, and writing skills.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

ActivityNumberFrequencyDurationTotalMonitored
Lectures10Weekly1 hour10Yes
Practicals10Weekly2 hours20Yes
Tutorials2Twice per term2 hours4Yes
Preparation and Reading66 
Total100 

Summative Assessment

Component: Continual AssessmentComponent Weighting: 100%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
General Test2 hours24
Report1500 words36
Essay2000 words40

Formative Assessment

Online learning activities.

More information

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