The earth's surface directly influences our climate and weather. This unit explores climates found at the land surface in terms of the exchanges of radiation, heat, water, and carbon dioxide. We examine how atmospheric processes interact with the physical properties of different surfaces to produce distinctive climates, including natural and human-modified environments. Natural environments of increasing complexity are considered (from simple desert and water bodies, to vegetated surfaces and non-uniform terrain). Relevant examples are drawn from ongoing research particularly in Australia. Emphasis is placed on gaining practical skills through laboratory exercises and a weekend field trip. -- Course Website
Instructor: Dr Ailie Gallant
Prerequisites: A first-year sequence in geography and environmental science, mathematics, earth sciences, biology, environmental science or permission
