Physics of the Atmosphere

Period: Second semester

Course unit contents: 

The Earth System. Atmospheric composition. Atmospheric Thermodynamics: gas laws; hydrostatic equation; first and second laws of thermodynamics. Radiative Transfer: black body radiation; greenhouse effect. Basic equations for the Atmospheric dynamics: continuity equation; vorticity. Atmospheric mean states: mass and pressure; mean temperature structure; mean atmospheric circulation; precipitation, evaporation. Weather Systems. Planetary Boundary Layer: turbulence; surface energy balance.

Planned learning activities and teaching methods: Frontal lectures with exercises.