Course Description
Atmospheric composition and structure, clouds, precipitation, and atmospheric motion and winds. Organized weather systems, including air masses, fronts, and severe weather. Discussion of global climates includes circulation, wind systems, climate classification, and climate change.
Athena Title
Intro to Weather and Climate
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in GEOG 1112E, ATSC 1112E
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall, spring and summer
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Successful completion of this course will satisfy the Physical Sciences General Education Core requirement by accomplishing the following broad learning objectives: A basic understanding of the physical forces that govern atmospheric pressure and motion. A basic understanding of mechanisms that drive atmospheric water and energy cycles. An understanding of weather systems including mid-latitude cyclones and hurricanes. An appreciation of the interactions between the land-surface and atmosphere in affecting weather and climate. An ability to recognize the interactions between human activities, modification of the earth-atmosphere system, and changes to the atmosphere and climate. A greater appreciation of the importance of science in our everyday lives and its role in influencing policy decision making. This course meets the following General Education Abilities by accomplishing the specific learning objectives listed below: Computer Literacy is addressed through course administration, student-faculty electronic interaction, and supplemental reading assignments. Critical Thinking is central to the learning objectives of this class, and includes the following elements, which are accomplished through lecture and classroom discussion/inquiry-based learning efforts: Consider and engage opposing points of view Support a consistent purpose and point of view Assimilate, analyze, and present a body of information Analyze arguments Moral Reasoning (Ethics) is an important element of this course, as it seeks to link our understanding of the atmosphere and weather phenomena with human health and social welfare, as developed through lectures, classroom discussion, and inquiry-based learning exercises.
Topical Outline
Energy and Moisture in the Atmosphere Earth-Sun Relationships & Seasons Atmospheric Composition and Structure Energy; Convection & Conduction; Radiation Global Energy Balance Temperature and Temperature Patterns Atmospheric Moisture Adiabatic Processes Lifting Mechanisms and Atmospheric Stability Dew & Frost, Fog, and Clouds Precipitation Winds and Weather Systems Air Pressure and Winds Local Winds and Monsoons Global Circulation Upper-level Winds Oceans and Ocean Currents El Niño / Southern Oscillation Events Air Masses and Fronts Mid-Latitude Cyclones Thunderstorms and Tornadoes Tropical Storms and Hurricanes Human Activities & Environmental Problems Climate Change/Global Warming Ozone Depletion Air Pollution & Acid Rain Urban Heat Islands Weather Analysis and Forecasting
General Education Core
CORE II: Physical SciencesSyllabus