EAS 3420 - Atmospheric Dynamics

(OPHLS-AG, PBS-AS, PHS-AS)

Spring. 3 credits. Student option grading.

Prerequisite: familiarity with multivariate calculus (e.g., MATH 2130, MATH 2220, or MATH 2930 or equivalent) or one semester of university physics. Co-meets with EAS 5420.

P. Hitchcock.

Introduction to the basic equations and techniques used to understand motion in the atmosphere, with an emphasis on the space and time scales typical of storm systems (the synoptic scale). Derives the governing equations of atmospheric flow from first principles and applies them to middle latitude and tropical meteorology. Topics include balanced flow, atmospheric waves, circulation, and vorticity.