ATM S 340, Winter 2003

Introduction to Thermodynamics & Cloud Processes

Instructor: Professor Peter V. Hobbs
504 Atmospheric Sciences Bldg., 543-6027
phobbs@atmos.washington.edu

Lectures: MTWThF, 9:30-10:20 AM, Room 310C ATG

Midterm Exam: 8:30-9:20 AM, Friday, February 7

Final Exam: 8:30-10:20 AM, Wednesday, March 19

Grading: Quizes (based on "homework") = 20%; Midterm = 30%; Final = 50%

Textbook: Atmospheric Sciences: An Introductory Survey, by J.M. Wallace and P.V. Hobbs (1st Ed., Academic Press)

Study Time Outside of Class: About 7 hours per week

Purpose of Course:

To review the basic concepts of thermodynamics and to apply these concepts to the atmosphere.

To provide an introduction to the physical processes leading to the formation of clouds, rain, snow and thunderstorm electrification.

Course Outline:

Thermodynamics is a cornerstone of classical physics, and one of the great intellectual achievements of mankind. Its applications extend beyond physics, to chemistry, biology, engineering and economics, as well as atmospheric science.

Since this course does not assume any previous knowledge of thermodynamics, we will first discuss the basic principles of thermodynamics, including the First and Second Laws. We will then apply thermodynamic concepts to the earth's atmosphere. This will lead us to an understanding of how thermodynamic data, provided by the worldwide network of radiosondes, are used in meteorology.

The last segment of the course will use thermodynamic principles to explain how clouds form. This will lead us to discussions of the formation of rain and snow, and the processes responsible for thunderstorm electrification.