GEOSC 201 - Meteorology

Number of Credits: 4
Examine the factors that affect daily weather and climate, seasonal changes in solar radiation, atmospheric heating, wind formation and global circulation. Use satellite and radar information to plot weather fronts and pressure systems. Describe the symbols and weather found on various types of weather maps. Examine how humidity is calculated, clouds form, precipitation is produced, and storms develop in both the U.S. and Tropics. (Typically offered in Fall Term as a lecture/lab format course; otherwise offered as a web-based course.) (Fall, Spring & Summer Only) Three hours lecture each week. Two hours laboratory each week. Four Credits. Four billable hours.

GENERAL EDUCATION Category: Biological and Physical Sciences

Pre-requisite(s): eligibility for ENGL 101 , plus exemption/completion of MAT 094, MAT 015 , or MATH 113 with a minimum grade of C.
Course Topics:
Compostion of the Atmosphere, Air Pressure, Humidity, Adiabatic Pressure changes, Cyclone Development, Weather Map Analysis, Frontal Genesis, Tropical Weather, Forecasting Weather, Cloud Development, Upper Level Systems, Surface Systems.
Course Objectives: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Describe the different layers of the atmosphere and the physical changes that occur in each. (GE1, GE2)
Explain how solar and terrestrial radiation are involved in the heating of the atmosphere. (GE1, GE2)
Explain the different ways that heat is transferred between the atmosphere, surface, and ocean. (GE1, GE2)
Analyze and interpret weather data, and use this information to forecast weather for selected cities and regions. (GE1, GE2, GE3, GE4, GE6)
Define air pressure and how it affects global and local wind systems. (GE1, GE2, GE3)
Compare the differences between surface and upper level weather products. (GE1, GE3)
Compute specific, relative, and maximum humidity for parcels of air at different altitudes and with moisture content. (GE1, GE2, GE3)
Identify the different processes that produce precipitation. (GE1, GE2)
List and describe the various types of clouds. (GE1, GE2)
Explain the processes that create, sustain, and weaken hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms. (GE1, GE2)