Modelling the Weather and Climate - 2024 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 climate physics in more detail, and study the predictability of the atmosphere.

Prerequisite module: MTH3001 Theory of Weather and Climate

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 and climate change;

- The sensitivity of climate to external influences;

- Interpreting climate model predictions;

- Numerical methods;

- Sub-grid processes.

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

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%.

ELE – http://vle.exeter.ac.uk

Reading list for this module: