Cloud physics 1103-5Geo10

1. Cloud thermodynamics
- basic description of cloud dynamical processes
- relevant theromdynamics to understand buoyancy and mixing processes
2. Cloud microphysics
-droplet formation on cloud coondensation nuclei (activation)
-condensational growth
- formation of precipitation: collision and coalescence
- elements of ice microphysics
- open questions: in-cloud activation, turbulence impact, entrainment and mixing processes
3. Representation of microphysics in numerical cloud models
- bulk microphysics (1- and 2- moments description)
- bin models
4 .Cloud radiative properties
- basic description of how clouds interact with radiation
5. Measurements and observation
- in-situ (airborne)
- remote (lidar, radar, satellite)

Mode

Classroom

Prerequisites (description)

Basic information on cloud thermodynamical and microphysical processes responsible for cloud droplet formation and evolution, and interactions aerosol - cloud - precipitation will be presented. The existing knowledge will be complemented with open questions and new challenges in cloud physics. Description of microphysics in cloud numerical models will be also presented. We will discuss observation and measurements techniques in cloud physics and interpretation of results.

Course coordinators

Hanna Pawłowska

Learning outcomes

Acquire a basic knowledge on:
- thermodynamics of clouds
- cloud microphysics
- formation, development and evolution of cloud droplets
- aerosol - cloud - precipitation interactions
- measurement techniques in cloud observations.

Assessment criteria

Passing of tutorials.
Oral exam.
Final assessment will be based on exercises reports (during the semester) and an oral exam (during the exam session). The oral exam may be taken by students who obtained at least 50% of the total number of points possible for written exercises reports.
Attendance at lectures and tutorials is strongly encouraged, but is not compulsory.

Bibliography

Rogers and Yau, A Short Course in Cloud Physics
Pruppacher and Klett, Microphysics of Clouds and Precipitation
Lamb, D. and J. Verlinde (2011). Physics and Chemistry of Clouds. Cambridge University Press, 584 pp.
Lohmann, Lund and Mahrt, An introduction to clouds; from the microscope to climate. Cambridge University Press

Additional information

Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system:

Description of 1103-5Geo10 in USOSweb