CLIMATOLOGY

The lecture is an introduction to meteorology climatology. Particular attention will be devoted at elucidating issues related to climate variability. Knowledge and comprehension of meteorology and climatology, aimed at a deep understanding of the climate system, its past and future evolution, belong to the fundamental objectives of the class

1. Knowledge and comprehension
Knowledge and comprehension concerning atmospheric and oceanic phenomena as well as their temporal and spatial evolution
2. Capability of applying knowledge and comprehension
Capability to recognize atmospheric and oceanic phenomena from the analysis of observed/simulated data
3. Assessment capability
Capability of conjecturing possible evolutions of atmospheric and oceanic phenomena and their variability

Basic mathematics and physics

Introduction;

II: Our Planet in the solar system;

III: Composition and physical characteristics atmosphere and ocean;

IV: Atmospheric and oceanic convection;

V: Radiation, temperature, salinity, stability;

VI: Humidity and clouds;

VII: Laws of motion;

VIII: Local circulation systems in atmosphere and ocean;

XI: General atmospheric and oceanic circulation;

X: Ocean-atmosphere interactions;

XI: Climate system;

XII: Climate stability and climate change.

Lecture notes and slides, C. Donald Ahrens: Meteorology Today, Brookks/Cole, 1999, 528 pages

Goal of the oral exam is to ascertain the comprehension of the different topic of the class, particularly as far as the elaboration of the acquired information is concerned.

oral

28-30 e lode: Mastery of the topics covered in class and in the textbooks; ability to prioritize and organize information; use of appropriate technical terminology.
26-27: Good knowledge of the topics covered in class and, to a lesser extent, in the textbooks; reasonable ability to organize and present information orally; familiarity with technical terminology.
24-25: Knowledge of the topics covered in class and in the textbooks that is not always thorough; organized oral presentation but with occasional incorrect use of technical terminology.
22-23: Often superficial knowledge of the topics covered in class and in the textbooks; oral presentation unclear and lacking in technical terminology.
18-21: Fragmented or incomplete knowledge of the topics covered in class and in the textbooks; confused oral presentation, with little use of technical terminology.

Frontal Lectures, possibly talks and experimental activity, also in informatic labs and through visits to research institutions.

The oral exam is aimed at a candidate's valuation in the whole discipline of the lecture. After a first invitation to discuss a topic chosen by the candidate -this serves to test the acquired knowledge on a particularly familiar topic- the exam continues focussing on several of the remaining topics