Surface, Water and Atmosphere - part 2

This course provides an in-depth introduction to the dynamic interactions between the Earth's subsurface, surface, and atmosphere and the role of water in these interactions. It integrates key concepts from geomorphology, hydrology, and atmospheric sciences, offering students a comprehensive understanding of the physical processes that shape landscapes, control water distribution, and influence climate and weather patterns.

In the surface section (Geomorphology), students will explore landform development, erosion, sediment transport, and the impact of tectonic activity on the Earth's surface. Attention is given to the role of glaciers, hillslopes, rivers, wind, and coastal processes in shaping natural environments.

In the water section (Hydrology), we will explore the hydrological cycle at global and local scales. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the water and energy balance at the surface, precipitation climatology and extremes, unsaturated flow and infiltration, evaporation, groundwater, runoff generation and streamflow. Students will analyze hydrological data and apply modeling techniques to diagnose and predict the spatial and temporal characteristics of water storage and fluxes. Attention is given to the role water plays in connecting processes in the subsurface, surface and atmosphere at a range of temporal scales.

 In the atmospheric sciences portion, students will learn about atmospheric structure, and weather systems The course covers topics such as atmospheric turbulence, atmospheric thermodynamics, boundary layer meteorology, and clouds and convection . All this from the perspective of 1D analysis (vertical column) and modelling and where appropriate relate to the surface energy balance including   water and vegetation surfaces and soils (land).

Through a combination of lectures and practical exercises, students will develop analytical skills to assess environmental processes and their interconnections. By the end, students will be able to evaluate how landforms, water systems, and atmospheric dynamics interact to shape the natural world and respond to environmental changes.