Period: First semester

Course unit contents: 

CLIMATOLOGY MODULE:

1. Introduction to Climatology: Definition and scope of climatology, Importance of studying climate, Fundamental concepts: weather and climate;

2. Components of the climatic system (atmosphere, hydrosphere/cryosphere, lithosphere, biosphere) and climate elements (Atmospheric temperature, Precipitation, Atmospheric humidity, Atmospheric pressure, Wind);

3. Factors Influencing Climate: Solar radiation, Ocean currents, Topography, Land cover, Human activities;

4. Climate Classifications: Climate classification systems, Interpretation of climate maps;

5. Climate Variations: Long-term climate changes, Extreme weather events, Effects of global climate change;

6. Study Methodologies: Climatological instrumentation, Collection and analysis of climate data, Climate modeling;

7. Applications of Climatology: Climate risks and adaptation.

PALEOCLIMATOLOGY MODULE:

1.Definition and Purpose of Paleoclimatology, Importance of studying past climate;

2. Fundamental Concepts: Climatic proxies, Stratigraphy, Dating methods;

3. Climate Reconstruction Methods, Climatic proxies: Dendrochronology, Analysis of lake and marine sediments, Stable isotopes, Pollen, Ice cores, etc.;

4. Absolute and Relative Dating Techniques: Radiocarbon dating, Dendrochronology, Sediment dating;

5. Climate Archives: Characteristics and interpretation of climate archives (e.g., ice cores, trees, corals, sediments, instrumental); Limitations and accuracy of paleoclimatic data;

6. Climate History: Major climatic periods in Earth's history: from Archean to Quaternary, Significant climate changes throughout geological history (e.g., glacial periods, thermal maxima, periods of climate stability);

7. Applications of Paleoclimatology: Use of paleoclimatic data to assess and predict future changes, Possible role of paleoclimatology in formulating adaptation and mitigation policies.

Planned learning activities and teaching methods: The course will be structured through lectures, guided discussions, practical exercises, and case study analyses. Active student participation will be encouraged.

Modifié le: jeudi 22 août 2024, 16:12