Entry requirements

120 credits including 35 credits in mathematics and 35 credits in physics

Learning outcomes

After the course the students should be able to:

• describe the atmospheric boundary layer, both over land and sea
• apply the equations of motions on the atmospheric boundary layer
• understand and quantify transport of momentum, heat and moisture to the atmosphere
• describe how the terrain influences the flow in the boundary layer
• describe how measurements in the boundary and surface layer are conducted
• in a physically relevant way analyse measurements from the surface layer
• describe processes at the mesoscale that are connected to the boundary layer and terrain

Content

The atmospheric boundary layer. The surface layer. The Ekman layer. Basic turbulence theory. K-theory. Monin-Obukhov theory. Free convection. Resistance. Internal boundary layer. The logarithmic wind law. Measurements from the boundary and surface layer, profile and turbulence measurements. Bowen ratio. Spectral analysis. Heat flux, latent heat flux and momentum flux. Low level jet. Thermal circulations e.g. sea breeze. The influence the terrain on the wind field. Deep convection. Waves in the atmosphere caused by the terrain and wind shear.

Instruction

In the first part (boundary layer meteorology and turbulence) the teaching is given using the case method, mixing cases with lectures. In the second part (processes at the mesoscale connected to the boundary layer) the teaching is given using lectures and practical assignments with written and oral presentations.

Assessment

Written examination (boundary-layer meteorology and turbulence, 10 ECTS) and home assignment (mesoscale meteorology, 4 ECTS). To pass requires approves practical assignments with homeassignment and presentations ( 1 ECTS).