MAQ-34306 Clouds and Climate

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

Dutch and/or English

Assumed knowledge on:

MAQ-32306 Boundary-layer Processes; MAQ-22806 Atmosphere-Vegetation-Soil Interactions

Continuation courses:

MAQ-31806 Mesoscale Meteorological Modelling

Contents:

This course gives insight in cloud processes and their relevance for weather and climate on a variety of scales. In the practical emphasis is given to the transition of a boundary layer with dry convection to one with moist convection, in which shallow cumulus clouds may develop. The main objective is to discuss the causes and consequences of this transition. This is done by analyzing the variables and equations that describe the ongoing processes in the convective boundary layer. Also the influence of soil moisture on the surface fluxes and boundary layer cloud formation over land will be studied. One major part of the practical part of the course involves the use of model simulations to study the evolution and vertical structure of convective boundary layers. Besides of modeling exercises, the course work includes practical exercises in which experimental data and other model simulations are used, and in which relevant scientific papers are discussed.

Learning outcomes:

After this course the student is expected to be able to:
- discuss and indicate the importance of clouds for weather and climate on a variety of scales;
- explain and illustrate various cloud feed-back mechanisms through model exercises;
- implement the governing equations for heat, moisture and scalar variables (such as carbon dioxide);
- classify and identify the different characteristics of clear and cloudy boundary layers;
- identify the main issues in cloud parameterization and modeling;
- express and employ the thermodynamic principles of cloud development and the use of conserved variables in both clear and cloudy boundary layers;
- find solutions and background information by making use of relevant scientific articles.

Activities:

The activities include self study and literature study, exercises based on a reader, weekly discussions about the model results and data analysis and writing a report on the findings.

Examination:

Oral examination on basis of the final report.

Literature:

Reader with relevant literature and scientific papers.