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Modern and Future Climate (ATOC30006)
Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
Overview
| Availability | Semester 2 |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
The main area of study in this subject is the examination of the key processes that maintain our present climate and how these may change into the future with climate change. We examine this by studying the controlling mechanisms for key conserved quantities in the Earth System such as energy, moisture, angular momentum and key trace gases.
The subject also introduces the various techniques used for climate predictions globally and locally. These include the modelling of climate change and the use of emission scenarios. Interpretation and statistical analysis of future-climate scenarios and the use of ensemble simulations.
Intended learning outcomes
By the completion of this subject, students should be able to:
- Describe the dynamic balances of key climate variables on climate time scales
- Derive and apply simple quantitative models of the impact of atmospheric radiative processes on climate
- Quantitatively analyse the sensitivity of key climate variables to altered forcing
- Describe at a qualitative level the key tools used for climate prediction
- Interpret the role of model uncertainty in attribution and prediction of climate change
- Implement simple numerical models encapsulating the dynamics of key climate variables
- Explain the underlying concepts of climate change coherently and comprehensibly
Generic skills
On completion of this subject students should have developed the following generic skills:
- demonstrate a high level of achievement in writing and problem-solving
- apply analytical, quantitative and technical skills to problem solving
- critically analyse information as life-long learners
- demonstrate excellent organisational, planning and time management skills
- apply scientific knowledge to understand technological and social changes
Last updated: 14 March 2025