Modelling the Weather and Climate - 2020 entry

This module introduces you to modelling the weather and climate by providing you with an overview of modern weather and climate computational models. Using hands-on computational case studies, you will explore key aspects of mathematical and computational modelling within a simpler model framework. You will look at one aspect of the climate physics in more detail, and study the predictability of the atmosphere.

Co-requisite Module: MTHM019 Fluid Dynamics of Atmospheres and Oceans, or equivalent

This module will give an introduction to both complex and simple models of weather and climate. Simple models are useful for improving our understanding of the climate system; however, to make detailed predictions requires large and complicated numerical models. In order to have a thorough understanding of the outputs from these models, it is important to have a grounding in the techniques employed.

On successful completion of this module, you should be able to:

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:

1 Understand the complexity of models of the climate and the split between resolved and unresolved processes;

2 Comprehend in detail the computational modelling of advection and diffusion;

3 Demonstrate expertise in one or more types of modelling of unresolved processes such as the planetary boundary layer;

4 Explore the predictability of the atmosphere;

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:

5 Use computational and mathematical techniques in modelling the climate system;

Personal and Key Transferable/ Employment Skills and Knowledge:

6 Apply mathematical skills to the atmospheric sciences.

We will focus on:

- Simple models of climate change;

- The sensitivity of climate to external influences;

- Interpreting climate model predictions;

- Numerical methods;

- Sub-grid processes.

If a module is normally assessed entirely by coursework, all referred/deferred assessments will normally be by assignment.

If a module is normally assessed by examination or examination plus coursework, referred and deferred assessment will normally be by examination. For referrals, only the examination will count, a mark of 50% being awarded if the examination is passed. For deferrals, candidates will be awarded the higher of the deferred examination mark or the deferred examination mark combined with the original coursework mark.

ELE – http://vle.exeter.ac.uk

Reading list for this module: