GEOS5368 - Physical Climate Science

GEOS 5368 Physical Climate Science (3 semester credit hours) Comprehensive overview of the physical processes that govern Earth's climate system. Core topics include the global energy balance, atmospheric and oceanic circulation, the hydrological cycle, sea ice dynamics, climate feedback mechanisms, climate modeling, natural climate variability, paleoclimate reconstructions, and anthropogenic climate change. The course emphasizes conceptual understanding, supported by data analysis using Python-based notebooks, simplified climate models, and exercises that promote analytical thinking and physical reasoning. The course is intended for students in Earth sciences, physics, or engineering who seek a solid foundation in climate science, as well as practical tools to apply this knowledge to their own research interests. (3-0) Y