MTMG49-Boundary Layer Meteorology and Micrometeorology

Module Provider: Meteorology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: MTMG02 Atmospheric Physics
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2020/1

Email: j.f.barlow@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module provides a description of surface and boundary layer processes, and covers how the boundary layer is measured and modelled. It also provides an overview of how boundary layer properties and other factors affect pollutant dispersion.

Aims:
To provide a description of surface and boundary layer processes, and to experience how the boundary layer is measured and modelled. To provide an overview of how boundary layer properties and other factors affect pollutant dispersion.

Assessable learning outcomes:

Assessable outcomes:

• Understand and describe fundamental turbulent processes in the atmospheric boundary layer over a diurnal cycle.

• Demonstrate a knowledge of key pollutants and their behaviour in the boundary layer, and have an overview of air quality modelling.

• Report critically on the results of measurements and the use of computer models in an appropriate, formal style.

Additional outcomes:

Students will enhance their skills in the use of computer models, team-working and processing data from measurements.

Outline content:

The lecture content covers:

• Structure of the atmospheric boundary layer and micrometeorology of the surface layer;

• Fundamentals of turbulence: Reynolds stresses, the logarithmic wind profile, Monin-Obukhov similarity theory and K theory;

• The diurnal variation of the boundary layer: neutral, convective, nocturnal and cloudy boundary layers;

• Urban meteorology: urban heat island, adjustmen t to urban roughness;

• Pollution in the boundary layer: air quality standards, gaseous pollutants, air quality modelling;

• The practical content covers one computer practical and one practical involving processing of field data measured in the Department’s Atmospheric Observatory;

• Evolution of the atmospheric boundary layer (computer practical);

• Measuring the wind profile in the surfac e layer (Atmospheric Observatory).

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Lectures, tutorials, practical classes.

Reading lists for meteorology modules are available here https://reading.rl.talis.com/departments/mps_met.html

Summative assessment- Examinations:

2 hour exam with a choice of two out of three questions in April.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:
Two reports (worth 25 each).

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

50% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:
For candidates who have failed, an opportunity to take a resit examination will be provided within the lifetime of the course.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 2) Specialist equipment or materials: 3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 4) Printing and binding: 5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 14 July 2020