GEOL 384 - Ocean, Atmosphere and Climate Interactions

Description:
The characteristics and circulation of Earth’s ocean and atmosphere are examined in the context of investigating the Earth’s energy balance and climate. Both natural and anthropogenic causes of climate variability are explored.

Prerequisites:
Prerequisites: [(either GEOL 101 or GEOL 103 or GEOL 107 or GEOL 108) and GEOL 101LAB, or SCED 102], and GEOL 201, and (either GEOL 202 or GEOL 203 or GEOL 210).

Credits: (4)

Learner Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

Describe the structure and composition of the Earth’s atmosphere and ocean as relevant for understanding the Earth’s energy balance.
Describe how ocean and atmosphere circulation redistributes energy at the Earth’s surface.
Examine and predict how a perturbation to oceanatmosphere interactions affects regional climate.
Differentiate natural from anthropogenic causes of climate change.

Learner Outcomes Approval Date:
3/19/20

Anticipated Course Offering Terms and Locations:
Winter Locations: Ellensburg