ATM S 502 Introduction to Synoptic Meteorology

Spring 2001 (3 credits)

Lectures: Monday & Wednesday, 10:30 - 11:20 in ATG 610
Lab: Friday 10:30 - 12:20 in ATG 610

Instructor: Dr. Lynn McMurdie
Office: 624 ATG
Phone: 685-9405
Email: mcmurdie@atmos.washington.edu
Office Hours: Drop in or by appointment

Synoptic-dynamic Meteorology in Midlatitudes, Vol 2, by H. B. Bluestein.
An Introduction to Dynamic Meteorology, by J. R. Holton.
Extratropical Cyclones, C. W. Newton and E. O. Holopainen, Eds.
Atmospheric Science. An Introductory Survey, by J. M. Wallace and P. V. Hobbs.

Week	Topics	Lab
1.	Mean atmospheric structure and circulation; geostrophic winds.	500 mb analysis
2.	Hypsometric equation; thickness; thermal wind.	850 mb analysis
3.	Surface analysis; frontal structure; frontogenesis.	surface analysis
4.	QG dynamics, diagnostics, and applications.	Weather commands
5.	Cyclone structure and development.	Cyclone structure
6.	Cloud and precipitation; 3-D structure of cyclones.	Vertical motion
7.	Satellite observations and application to cyclones.	Trajectories
8.	Upper level fronts.	Satellite imagery
9.	Topographic effects; mesoscale orographic circulations.	Upper-level fronts
10.	Pacific NW weather.	None

Labwork and homework: 30%
Midterm exam: 30%
Final exam: 35%
Weather discussion participation: 5%

Holiday: May 28
Final: Monday, 4 June 8:30 - 10:20 a.m.

Updated March 20, 2001