Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title Modelling Processes in Oceans and Climate
Code ENVS414
Coordinator Professor J Sharples
Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences
Jonathan.Sharples@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2022-23 Level 7 FHEQ First Semester 15

Aims

1. Develop an understanding of how a simple numerical model works.

2. Develop a level of coding skill sufficient to write numerical models and present the model data.

3. Be able to translate model results into reports aimed at key target audiences (e.g. scientists or policymakers).

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) By the end of this module the student will understand how simple finite-difference numerical models work.

(LO2) By the end of this module a student will be able to write simple models using standard coding software.

(LO3) By the end of this module a student will be able to communicate the results of numerical modelling in a short illustrated reports targeted at key audiences (e.g. scientists and policymakers).

(S1) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills - written

(S2) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Academic writing (inc. referencing skills)

(S3) Numeracy/computational skills - Numerical methods

(S4) Numeracy/computational skills - Problem solving

Syllabus
 

Weeks 1 - Matlab refresher

Weeks 2-5. Setting up a simple finite-difference model of the seasonal changes in shelf sea vertical temperature structure; model stability and resolution; net surface heat flux and convective instability; turbulent mixing; consequences in a warming climate.

Weeks 6-9. Ocean-atmosphere partitioning of carbon, connections between radiative heating and warming. Modelling the carbon chemistry of the ocean and assessing long-term climate responses to atmospheric CO2 scenarios.

Note that the two model "blocks" could occur in either order, depending on staff commitments.

Week 10. A demonstration of how the two models can be combined to yield a description of the seasonality of the solubility pump in a shelf sea.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Workshop
Description: Lecture/workshop to develop model codes and produce main results for the assignments.
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: Once per week (weeks 1-10): the lecture and computer lab run together in a single 3 hour block. At the end of each of the two model blocks there is week without formal teaching to provide time for working on the assignment.

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours       24

     24
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 126
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Assessment 1 There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :1  0    50       
Assessment 2 There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :1  0    50       

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.