I. Course Title: Atmospheric Physics
II. Course Number: PHYS 301
III. Credit Hours: 4 credits
IV. Prerequisites: PHYS 111 or PHYS 221 or ASTR 220
Cross-Listed: PHSC 301
V. Course Description:
Basic principles of meteorology, including earth’s atmosphere, insulation, humidity,
adiabatic processes, large-scale circulation of the atmosphere, mid-altitude weather,
violent weather phenomena, and climatology.
Note(s): Scientific and Quantitative Reasoning designated course.
VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:
The major topics covered in this course are those considered in most recently published atmospheric physics/meteorology texts. A text selected will include the following topics. Laboratory exercises will be used to supplement and reinforce learning from the text and lecture.
Topics covered in Physics 301:
1. The Atmosphere
2. Earth's Heat Budget
3. Atmospheric Moisture
4. Large scale circulation of the atmosphere
5. Small scale circulation
6. Observations of atmospheric variables
7. Atmospheric optics
8. World climate
9. Climate modeling
VII. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:
Physics 301 will be based on the material in the text, and augmented by supplementary texts and laboratory exercises. A basic knowledge of physics is assumed. Physics and chemistry concepts utilized in the course will be introduced as needed. The course is taught as a lecture/activity course. Students will collect and analyze data. Questions, class discussion, and in-class exercises and activities are encouraged throughout the course.
VIII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:
To build a knowledge base about the physical properties of the atmosphere, and how the atmospheric components interact. Learning objectives of individual chapters or topics are formulated to achieve this goal.
IX. Assessment Measures:
Student success is based on their performance on tests, a final exam, homework, laboratory exercises, and other exercises and methods as determined by the instructor.
Review and Approval
DATE ACTION REVIEWED BY
September 24, 2001 - Reviewed by Walter S. Jaronski, Chair
August 2020
March 01, 2021