An Introduction to Meteorology and Oceanography

The aim of this course is to provide a physical understanding of large-scale oceanic and atmospheric circulations, and the practical consequences of such systems. Large-scale movements are the result of the interaction between thermodynamic imbalances - driven by solar radiation - and the Earth's rotation. Therefore, these two processes are first studied before being combined to explain the functioning of large-scale meteorological and oceanic systems. The problem of climate change will also be discussed.

1. Introduction The composition and the physico-chemical properties of the atmosphere and the ocean. The distribution of water over the surface of the earth.

2. Heat transfer in the atmosphere and the ocean Solar radiation, radiative exchanges between earth and atmosphere; sensible heat transfer, stratification and stability

3. The effects of rotation The equations of motion in a rotating frame of reference, geostrophic equilibrium and quasi-geostrophic flows. The thermal wind.

4. Forced motions Ekman transport and Ekman pumping; the Ekman layer and the nocturnal jet.

5. Waves in a stratified or rotating flow Interfacial waves in stratified fluids; waves in a continuously-stratified fluid - internal waves. Rossby waves and the Rossby adjustment problem.

6. Ocean currents Wind forcing, the Sverdrup balance, oceanic gyres, Ekman pumping in ocean and coastal regions, the Gulf stream.

7. Large scale systems General circulation in the atmosphere, atmosphere-ocean coupling, El Niño. Climate and climate change. Meteorological models, and limits to weather prediction.