Accessibility navigation

MT46E-Boundary Layer Meteorology

Module Provider: Meteorology
Number of credits: 20 [10ECTS credits]
Terms in which taught: Autumn and Summer
Module Convenor: Dr JF Barlow
Pre-requisites: MT23E
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Module version for: 2008/9

Email: j.f.barlow@reading.ac.uk

Aims:
This module aims to provide the student with an understanding of how small-scale processes affect the thermodynamic and kinematic structures of the atmospheric boundary layer. Practical work aims to illustrate methods of measurement and interpretation of turbulent transfer processes within the surface layer.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module, the student should be able to:

  • Analyse and interpret data retrieved from field observations of turbulent exchange processes.
  • Describe in physical and mathematical terms some important atmospheric flow phenomena on horizontal scales less than about 10km, and the way in which these are influenced by the Earth's surface and its overlying atmosphere.

    Additional outcomes:
    The practical (field) work will enhance team-working skills, and the use of spreadsheet programs for the analysis of experimental data.

    Outline content:
    The Practical Content covers

  • Statistical analysis of turbulent wind fluctuations
  • Sensible heat transfer by the eddy-correlation method
  • Momentum and heat transfer measurements by the profile method.
  • Estimating surface energy balance by the Penman method
    The Lecture Content covers the conceptual and mathematical modelling of:
  • Surface layer fluxes and their measurement
  • Evolution of the boundary layer
  • Turbulence in the boundary layer
  • Flow over a changing surface
  • Flow over hills
  • Flow over vegetation canopies
  • The urban boundary layer

    Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
    Practical work takes place during a 3-week period following Part 3 examinations. Experimental work is supported by comprehensive notes and lectures, scheduled according to prevailing weather conditions.
    During term 10 more theoretical work will be presented in 16 50-minute lectures. Two tutorial sessions will be used also.

    Contact hours:

      Autumn Spring Summer
    Lectures 16 12
    Tutorials/seminars 4    3 
    Practicals     9 
    Other contact (eg study visits)      
    Total hours 20    24 
    Number of essays or assignments 2    3 
    Other (eg major seminar paper)      

    Assessment:
    Coursework
    1 experimental report to be submitted and one short presentation with 1 experimental summary during term 9;
    1 experimental report and 1 advanced assignment to be submitted in term 10
    Relative percentage of coursework:
    60%
    Penalties for late submission
    10% of maximum mark up to five working days late. Zero mark after five working days.
    Examinations
    One 2-hour examination requiring answers to two questions from three.
    Requirements for a pass
    40% overall
    Reassessment arrangements
    Resit examination only

    • Things to do now

    Page navigation

     

    Search Form