Courses: GEOF110 Introduction to Atmosphere-Ocean Dynamics - Autumn 2017

Language of Instruction

Norwegian

Teaching semester

Spring

Objectives and Content

The course gives a basic introduction to the atmosphere and ocean dynamics. The starting point is conservation of mass and momentum and the corresponding equations, formulated in non-rotating and rotation coordinate systems. Physical interpretation of these equations is given and simplified expressions are used to explain, derive and quantify characteristics properties of, in particular, large scale and free motion in atmosphere and ocean.

Learning Outcomes

After completed course the students should be able to:

- derive the basic equations for the motion in atmosphere and ocean

- use several versions of non-rotating and rotation coordinate systems for quantifying atmosphere and ocean dynamics

- derive the geostrophic and thermal wind equations, and apply various versions of these expressions on large and synoptic scale systems in atmosphere and ocean

- derive how friction influences, to lowest order, the atmosphere and ocean dynamics

- apply first physical principles to describe the large scale, global circulation in atmosphere and ocean

- derive and apply the basic expressions for Ekman and Sverdrup dynamics in the ocean

- derive and apply expressions for the basic forms of gravity, Rossby and Kelvin waves in the atmosphere and ocean

Recommended Previous Knowledge

MAT112, MAT131, MAT212, PHYS111 and experience in programming, e.g. MatLab or Python.

Forms of Assessment

Midway exam, written, 2 hours. Counts 20% on the final grade and is valid for two semesters. Final exam, written, 4 hours. Counts 80% on the final grade and must be passed. Grades (A-F). If less than 10 candidates, the exam might be oral.

Examination support materials: Non-programmable calculator, according to model listed in faculty regulations.

Grading Scale

The grading scale used is A to F. Grade A is the highest passing grade in the grading scale, grade F is a fail.