Ph 471 Atmospheric Physics

Cycles of trace gases in the earth's atmosphere and their role in the environment. Emission, dispersal and removal of natural and man-made trace constituents in the atmosphere that determine the earth's climate and the stratospheric ozone layer. Mass Balance Models for quantitative analysis of atmospheric composition and trends. Climate change and perturbations of stratospheric ozone in modern times. Lays a foundation for the understanding of the complex issues of climatic change and its many linkages and feedbacks. Questions regarding environmental policy and action are examined in the light of current model results, their predictions and uncertainties. Also offered for graduate-level credit as Ph 571; this is the same course as ESM 471 and may be taken only once for credit. Expected preparation: one year each of calculus and calculus- based physics, introductory course in differential equations.