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This
class will provide a balance between theory and practical applications
toward describing synoptic-scale phenomena, including air masses,
frontal systems, cyclones, anti-cyclones, tropical cyclones and associated
mesoscale components. Heavy emphasis is placed on building an understanding
of potential vorticity theory and understanding synoptic weather
via isentropic analysis. This will be accomplished where possible
through use of satellite data, NWP models, and workstations that
involve remote sensing. In-class instruction will be complimented
by applications involving hands-on weather interpretation, map and
forecast discussions, forecast presentations, and case study analysis.
Use of National Weather Service COMET web-based modules will enhance
the instruction. The class will highlight aspects of synoptic scale
weather unique to the southeastern U.S., given the combined tropical
and midlatiude influences. An AMS-style Conference finalizes the
class, comprised of student presentations.
The goal of the course is to provide students in graduate level atmospheric
science a broad background into synoptic meteorology at a level above undergraduate
level material. The course therefore assumes a strong familiarity with
atmospheric thermodynamics (ATS 541) and dynamics (ATS 551) so that this
course's material can grow from these basic concepts. It is very much encouraged
that students understand or be prepared to learn simple programming skills,
as required for several homework assignments.
Course
Syllabus
1. Overview:
a) Definitions & Units
b) Influences of atmospheric moisture
c) The role of the mesoscale?
2. Kinematics of the Flow:
a) Divergence, vorticity & deformation; Trajectories
b) Helmholtz partitioning of wind field
c) Vorticity & potential vorticity
3. Balanced Flow:
a) Geostrophic flow definition
b) Other balance criteria
c) Geostrophic adjustment (shallow water system)
4. Quasi-Geostrophic Dynamics & Diagnostics:
a) Overview of Pressure tendency
b) Overview of QG-omega & QG-vorticity equations
c) QG potential vorticity; Q-vectors
5. Vertical Variation of Wind:
a) Thermal wind, vertical wind shear
b) Thermal wind balance
c) Advection
6. Midlatitude Cyclones:
a) Rossby waves; Flow regimes and circulation
b) Vertical structure of waves & Development
c) Cylogenesis, cyclone movement; Anticyclones
d) Three-dimensional flow & precipitation
e) Isentropic flow
7. Fronts and Jet Streams:
a) Frontogenesis (diagnosing)
b) Semi-geostrophic theory
c) Jet streaks
8. Instability & Convection:
a) Measures of stability
b) Elevated mixed layers
c) Convective systems
d) Tropical weather systems
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