701-0473-00L  Weather Systems

SemesterAutumn Semester 2016
LecturersM. A. Sprenger, C. Grams
Periodicityyearly recurring course
Language of instructionGerman


AbstractThis lecture introduces the theoretical principles and the observational and analytical methods of atmospheric dynamics. Based on these principles, the following aspects are discussed: the energetics of the global circulation, the basic synoptic- and meso-scale flow phenomena, in particular the dynamics of exrtatropical cyclones, and the influence of mountains on the atmospheric flow.
ObjectiveThe students are able to
- explain up-to-date meteorological observation techniques and the basic methods of theoretical atmospheric dynamics
- to discuss the mathematical basis of atmospheric dynamics, based on selected atmospheric flow phenomena
- to explain the basic dynamics of the global circulation and of synoptic- and meso-scale flow features
- to explain how mountains influence the atmospheric flow on different scales
ContentSatellite observations; analysis of vertical soundings; geostrophic and thermal wind; cyclones at mid-latitude; global circulation; north-atlantic oscillation; atmospheric blocking situtations; Eulerian and Lagrangian perspective; potential vorticity; Alpine dynamics (storms, orographic wind); planetary boundary layer
Lecture notesLecture notes and slides
LiteratureAtmospheric Science, An Introductory Survey
John M. Wallace and Peter V. Hobbs, Academic Press