NFYK14015U Microscale meteorology

Volume 2014/2015
Content

The course will in a systematic way introduce the student to the physics of the lowest part of the atmosphere, the atmospheric boundary layer. The flow is turbulent and hence turbulent theory will occupy a large fraction of the course.

Keywords include: mean equations (ensemble, time and space), turbulent fluxes, eddy viscosity, RANS vs LES, surface energy balance, buoyancy, Monin-Obukhov similarity theory, convective boundary layers, stable boundary layers, spectra, entrainment.

Learning Outcome

Skills:
When the course is finished the student is able to:

  • Describe the key properties of turbulence
  • Explain the concept of Reynolds stresses, fluxes and eddy viscosity.
  • Derive the governing equations for the atmospheric flow in the Atmospheric boundary layer
  • Characterize the impact of thermal stratification and upon the atmospheric boundary layer.
  • Explain the Buckinham Pi theorem and give examples of its usage in the surface layer.
  • List the key physical properties in convective boundary layers.
  • List the key physical properties in stable boundary layers.

Knowledge:

  • The student will have a general understanding of the structure of the atmospheric boundary layer, with the associated structures of turbulence.

Competences:

  • The student will be able to link he theoretical framework to more applied topics within wind energy and environmental studies etc.

John C. Wyngaard: Turbulence in the atmosphere (Cambridge University Press 2010) and lecture notes.

Bachelor program in physics / geophysics or equivalent.
Lectures and theoretical exercises
The course is offered every second year.
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Exam
  • 0,5
  • Lectures
  • 28
  • Preparation
  • 149,5
  • Theory exercises
  • 28
  • Total
  • 206,0
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Oral examination, 30
Oral Exam 30 min with with no preparation. Questions are given before the exam.
Aid
Only certain aids allowed

One page overview of each exam question

Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
No external censorship
Internal evaluation by two persons (including the person responsible for the course)
Criteria for exam assesment

The grade 12 is given for the excellent performance fulfilling the learning outcome of the course with few or no important misses.