651-1504-00L  Snowcover: Physics and Modelling

SemesterSpring Semester 2015
LecturersM. Schneebeli, H. Löwe
Periodicityyearly recurring course
Language of instructionEnglish



Courses

NumberTitleHoursLecturers
651-1504-00 GSnowcover: Physics and Modelling3 hrs
Mon15:15-18:00NO E 39 »
M. Schneebeli, H. Löwe

Catalogue data

AbstractSnow is a fascinating high-temperature material and relevant for applications in glaciology, hydrology, atmospheric sciences, polar climatology, remote sensing and natural hazards. This course introduces key concepts and underlying physical principles of snow, ranging from individual crystals to polar ice sheets.
ObjectiveThe course aims at a cross-disciplinary overview about the phenomenology of relevant processes in the snow cover, traditional and advanced experimental methods for snow measurements and theoretical foundations with key equations required for snow modeling.
ContentTopics include: snow formation, crystal growth, snow microstructure, metamorphism, ice physics, snow mechanics, heat and mass transport in the snowcover, surface energy balance, snow models, wind transport, snow chemistry, electromagnetic properties, experimental techniques.
Lecture notesLecture notes and selected publications.
Prerequisites / NoticeWe offer a voluntary field excursion to Davos on Saturday, 14 March 2015 (if there is sufficient interest). During the excursion the students will conduct snow measurements by themselves in the field and visit the cold laboratories at SLF, Davos.

Performance assessment

Performance assessment information (valid until the course unit is held again)
Performance assessment as a semester course
ECTS credits4 credits
ExaminersM. Schneebeli, H. Löwe
Typesession examination
Language of examinationEnglish
RepetitionThe performance assessment is offered every session. Repetition possible without re-enrolling for the course unit.
Admission requirementAt least 50% of all exercises must be solved and will be graded
Mode of examinationwritten 90 minutes
Additional information on mode of examinationFinal grade weighted: 70% examination and 30% from graded semester exercises
Written aidslecture notes excercises
This information can be updated until the beginning of the semester; information on the examination timetable is binding.

Learning materials

 
Main linkSnowcover: Physics and Modelling 2015
Only public learning materials are listed.

Groups

No information on groups available.

Restrictions

There are no additional restrictions for the registration.

Offered in

ProgrammeSectionType
Atmospheric and Climate Science MasterMinor in Physical GlaciologyWInformation
MAS in Sustainable Water ResourcesElectivesWInformation
Physics MasterSelection: Environmental PhysicsWInformation
Environmental Sciences MasterMinor in Physical GlaciologyWInformation