4.00 Credits
An introduction to the study of the physics of the Earth's climate. Topics include climatic classification, the spectrum of radiation, absorption, scattering, transmission, radiation, the tropospheric energy balance, the energy balance at the Earth's surface, time variations in the energy balance, the atmospheric transport of energy, the atmosphere as a heat engine, CFCs and stratospheric ozone, the carbon cycle, other greenhouse gases, climate heating, integrated assessment of models and human activities affecting climate change. In addition, some of the policy issues associated with such human activities will be addressed. Lecture four hours per week with some laboratory exercises included. NOTE: Please refer to the appropriate academic catalog for additional course information concerning prerequisites, co-requisites and course restrictions..
Prerequisite:
PHYS 112 OR HONS 158