ESE 130: Atmosphere Dynamics - Main Page
Introduction to geophysical fluid dynamics of large-scale flows in the atmosphere. Governing equations and approximations that describe flows, which are dominated by rotation and stratification. Topics include: conservation laws, equations of state, geostrophic and thermal wind balance, shallow water dynamics, and atmospheric waves.
Instructor: Simona Bordoni, 239 Linde + Robinson, bordoni@gps.caltech.edu. Office hour: By appointment TA: Jinqiang Chen, 226 Linde + Robinson, jcchen@gps.caltech.edu. Office hour: Tue 3:30 - 4:30 pm, 135 L + R.
Syllabus: [PDF] Schedule: MWF 1 - 1:55pm Textbooks (on SFL reserve) :
G. K. Vallis: Atmospheric and Oceanic Fluid Dynamics (Cambridge 2006) - Required
J. R. Holton: An Introduction to Dynamic Meteorology (Elsevier 2004)
A. E. Gill: Atmosphere-Ocean Dynamics (Academic Press 1982)
J. Pedlosky: Geophysical Fluid Dynamics (2nd Ed. Springer-Verlag 1987)
B. Cushman-Roisin: Introduction to Geophysical Fluid Dynamics (Prentice Hall 1994)
J. Marshall and A. Plumb: Atmosphere, Ocean and Climate Dynamics (Academic Press 2008)
Grading : Homework 50%, Midterm 20%, Final 30%
Collaboration Policy : You are encouraged to discuss problem sets together and with the TA, but the work you turn in should reflect your understanding of the material.