Course Outline:
This course introduces the student to the thermodynamics of the Earth System. Emphasis will be placed on atmospheric thermodynamics and the role of water. The class will cover the constituents of the atmosphere and ocean, the equation of state, the first and second law of thermodynamics, the Clausius-Clapeyron equation, and atmospheric stability.
The course is divided into four parts:
Introduction: Discussion of the composition of the atmosphere and ocean, hydrostatic balance, equation of state, and applications
Thermodynamics of dry air: Discussion of the first and second laws of thermodynamics, potential temperature, entropy, and the Carnot Cycle
Thermodynamics of moist air: Effects of condensation/freezing on the thermodynamics of air, the Clausius-Clapeyron Equation, and moist adiabatic processes
Stability: stability, buoyancy, convective available potential energy, and convective inhibition
Learning Goals:
At the end of this course, the student will be able to:
Have a robust understanding of the basic principles behind atmospheric and oceanic thermodynamics.
Recognize why water vapor is important to the thermodynamics of the atmosphere. Understand the importance of the Clausius-Clapeyron equation in weather and climate. Recognize and properly interpret Skew-T diagrams
Have the fundamental tools to tackle more advanced courses in atmospheric and oceanic sciences.