EAE2111 · Introduction to climate science

Overview

From the humid tropics to the polar deserts, Earths diverse array of climates are the result of complex physical, chemical and biological processes and their interactions. This unit provides an introduction to the Earth's climate system and its operation. You will gain an appreciation of Earths climate, including the atmosphere, oceans and cryosphere, and how these vary in space and time. Key processes that regulate the climate system on the global, regional and micro-scale will be introduced. The natural operation of these processes and their operation with human influence, including climate change, will be examined. You will be exposed to the techniques and instrumentation used to measure and monitor the atmosphere and the real-world applications for climate monitoring will be described. Practical experience in meteorological measurement will be gained through laboratory classes and a weekend field experience

Areas of study: Climate and atmospheric science Earth science Environmental science Geographical science Human geography

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Define the concept of 'climate' and recognise key processes that regulate the climate system on the global, regional and micro-scales;
2. Demonstrate how various elements of the climate system are measured and observed, including describing the instruments employed, how they operate, and their application to real-world climate problems;
3. Examine why the climate system varies on a number of time and space scales. Demonstrate some of the key physical mechanisms and their interactions that cause these variations, and appreciate their complexity;
4. Recognise and summarise some of the modifications made by humans that can influence the climate and the associated processes by which this occurs;
5. Communicate complex concepts in climate system science to scientific and non-scientific audiences.

Workload

Total 144 hours over 12 weeks, which includes: • One 1-hour workshop per week; • One 2-hour laboratory per week (for eleven weeks); • A half-day field trip and • Additional self-directed learning activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.