MT25F-Atmospheric Analogues

Module Provider: Meteorology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: Some background in fluid dynamics
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr David Ferreira
Email: d.g.ferreira@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

In this module the student will have the opportunity to carry out experimental work in the Fluid Dynamics lab, learn data analysis technics (e.g. manipulation of error bars, comparions between theory and observations), and reinforce concepts of geophysical fluid dynamics.

Aims:
This module aims to enhance the student's appreciation of some important atmospheric and oceanic phenomena, through the use of laboratory experiments.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module a student should be able to:

• Identify and describe physical processes controlling atmospheric and oceanic phenomena;


• Analyse data from laboratory experiments, estimate errors, and maintain a laboratory notebook.

Additional outcomes:
Students will enhance their team-working skills by working in small groups. Students will also enhance their experimental skills.

Outline content:

Students carry out a series of experiments:

• Density currents;


• Thermal plumes;


• Rotating/non-rotating convection;


• Surface water waves;


• Motion of objects in a rotating reference frame.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
There is one introductory session, followed by five 3-hour practical classes. The module ends with a quiz later in the term to help solidify the understanding of the material.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Seminars		1
Practicals classes and workshops		15
Guided independent study:		84
Total hours by term		100
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Report	70
Class test administered by School	30

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Coursework: Two experimental reports (35% each) are assessed, along with a class test at the end of the term (30%).

Formative assessment methods:
The first two practical sessions will be used to give feedbacks on the experimental reports. The student will then choose two out of the three remaining sessions for summative assessment (see above).

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 40% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-submission of laboratory reports.

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: 30 March 2023