Study information

Mid-Latitude Weather Systems - 2022 entry

MODULE TITLEMid-Latitude Weather Systems CREDIT VALUE15
MODULE CODEMTHM052 MODULE CONVENERDr Jennifer Catto (Coordinator)
DURATION: TERM 1 2 3
DURATION: WEEKS 11
Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated) 20
DESCRIPTION - summary of the module content
In this module you will develop a mathematical and physical understanding of the dynamics of synoptic scale weather systems in the mid latitudes, including extratropical cyclones and fronts. You will explore conceptual models for the development of these weather systems and compare these with analytical models and observations. You will develop quantitative skills in the analysis of these weather systems, which are relevant to understanding what we see outside, and to making sense of surface and upper-level synoptic charts and weather forecasts. Through quasi-geostrophic theory, concepts of potential vorticity (PV) thinking will be used to understand where we might expect to see vertical motion and rainfall within these systems, and what impact moisture has on the development of systems. You will explore and discuss recent research in the field of midlatitude weather systems, enabling you to develop your critical thinking skills. The module will include a mix of instruction methods, including traditional lectures, videos, discussion classes, giving you varied opportunities to develop learning and organisational skills. You will, with other students, explore some of the research literature related to the mid latitude weather systems and discuss how the theory informs this research.  
 
Pre-requisite module: MTH3001 or MTH051 or equivalent.  
 
AIMS - intentions of the module

By the end of this module you will have an understanding of the origins of synoptic scale motions in the midlatitudes. The skills in being able to link mathematical descriptions of phenomena with observations of the atmosphere will be valuable for anyone with an interest in the weather we experience day-to-day. By examining topical research, you will understand the relevance of the mathematical and conceptual models for generating new knowledge of how the weather and climate system works. Knowledge of the systems discussed in this module will be ideal for careers involving meteorology (including forecasting), climate and environmental science and modelling. By engaging with research literature, you will develop critical analysis skills that will be essential for any scientific career.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs) (see assessment section below for how ILOs will be assessed)

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:

1. Explain the origin of atmospheric motions in the midlatitudes and use appropriate mathematical and conceptual models to describe these motions and their associated midlatitude weather systems;

 

2. Understand the use of observations in developing concepts and forecasting the weather;

 

3. Link the theory of midlatitude weather systems to examples of recent research;

 

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:

4. Understand the role of mathematical modelling in real life situations;

 

5. Develop expertise in using analytical and numerical techniques to explore mathematical models;

 

Personal and Key Transferable/ Employment Skills and Knowledge:

6. Demonstrate skills in critical analysis of research.

 

7. Present findings in poster and written form.

 

8. Formulate and solve complex problems

 

 

SYLLABUS PLAN - summary of the structure and academic content of the module
  • Introduction to midlatitude weather systems (fronts, cyclones, upper level features)  
  • Basic midlatitude equations 
  • Quasi-geostrophic equations 
  • Potential Vorticity (PV) thinking 
  • Diagnosing vertical motion (Omega equation)
  • Rossby waves 
  • Baroclinic instability (Eady and Charney models) 
  • Lifecycles of storms (including conceptual models)
  • Diabatic heating impacts on midlatitude weather systems
  • Fronts and frontogenesis 
  • Recent topics in midlatitude dynamics research
  • Developing a poster presentation on a research paper and how to peer review this.
LEARNING AND TEACHING
LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS (given in hours of study time)
Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities 33 Guided Independent Study 117 Placement / Study Abroad
DETAILS OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS
Category Hours of study time Description
Scheduled learning and teaching activities 11 Pre-recorded videos
Scheduled learning and teaching activities 22 Lectures/discussion sessions
Guided independent study 117 Reading, revision, assessment preparation

 

ASSESSMENT
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT - for feedback and development purposes; does not count towards module grade
Form of Assessment Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Coursework Sheets, each with problems involving mathematical analysis and physical interpretation.   4 hours per sheet All In problems class, with lecturer in office hours
Poster presentation (prelude to written report) 10 hours All Peer feedback to help when formulating written report
       
       
       

 

SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT (% of credit)
Coursework 20 Written Exams 80 Practical Exams
DETAILS OF SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Form of Assessment % of Credit Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Coursework – report on chosen research paper 20 30 hours 1, 2, 5, 6 Annotated report and verbal feedback on request
Written exam (closed book) 80 2 hour exam (Summer) 1-4, 7 Written/verbal on request, SRS
         
         
         

 

DETAILS OF RE-ASSESSMENT (where required by referral or deferral)
Original Form of Assessment Form of Re-assessment ILOs Re-assessed Time Scale for Re-assessment
Coursework* Coursework – report on chosen research paper (20)  1,2,5,6 August Ref/Def period
Written Exam* Written exam (closed book) (80) 1-4,7 August Ref/Def period

*Please refer to reassessment notes for details on deferral vs. Referral reassessment

RE-ASSESSMENT NOTES

RE-ASSESSMENT NOTES 

Deferrals: Reassessment will be by coursework and/or written exam in the deferred element only. For deferred candidates, the module mark will be uncapped.     

Referrals: Reassessment will be by a single written exam worth 100% of the module only. As it is a referral, the mark will be capped at 50%.
RESOURCES
INDICATIVE LEARNING RESOURCES - The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of
information that you are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Convener

Web-based and electronic resources:

  • ELE – College to provide hyperlink to appropriate pages

Other resources:

Reading list for this module:

Type Author Title Edition Publisher Year ISBN
Set Holton, J.R. An Introduction to Dynamic Meteorology 4th Academic Press 2012 978-0123848666
Set A E Gill Atmosphere-Ocean Dynamics Elsevier 1982
Set I N James Introduction to Circulating Atmospheres Cambridge University Press 1994
Set J E Martin Mid-latitude Atmospheric Dynamics - a first course Wiley 2006
CREDIT VALUE 15 ECTS VALUE 7.5
PRE-REQUISITE MODULES MTH3001, MTHM051
CO-REQUISITE MODULES
NQF LEVEL (FHEQ) 7 AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING No
ORIGIN DATE Friday 19th June 2020 LAST REVISION DATE Friday 5th August 2022
KEY WORDS SEARCH weather, meterology

Please note that all modules are subject to change, please get in touch if you have any questions about this module.