EAE5024 · Boundary layer meteorology

Overview

Boundary layer meteorology pertains to 'the part of the troposphere that is directly influenced by the presence of the earth's surface, and responds to surface forcings with a timescale of about an hour or less.' This unit details: aspects of turbulence unique to the boundary layer, the surface layer including Monin-Obukhov similarity theory, surface fluxes and boundary layer entrainment processes, a hierarchy of numerical models of the boundary layer. Finally, this unit discusses air pollution meteorology within the boundary layer.

Areas of study: Master of Science in Atmospheric Science

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. Apply a conceptual definition of the atmospheric boundary layer and various quantitative definitions.
2. Appraise the dynamical and physical processes that affect that atmospheric boundary layer.
3. Appraise the diurnal cycle of the terrestrial boundary layer and the evolution of the maritime boundary layer during warm and cold air advection.
4. Appraise a hierarchy of models of the atmospheric boundary layer and construct a 'mixed layer model'.
5. Critically analyse scientific literature on the atmospheric boundary layer.

Workload

A total of 12 hours per week comprising: • Three 1-hour lectures • Three hours on assignments, reports and preparation of a talk • 6 hours of independent study

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