<p>Lecture, three hours. Radiative transfer and energy-balance models (EBMs). Multiple equilibrium climates and their stability. Coupled EBMs of atmosphere and oceans. Climatic history of our planet. Continuum mechanics of ice sheets and mantle. Oscillatory models of Quaternary glaciation cycles. Transitions from equilibrium to periodic and aperiodic climate behavior. Climatic predictability. S/U (for majors with consent of instructor after successful completion of written and oral comprehensive examination and for nonmajors at discretion of major department) or letter grading.</p>

Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences

Combining rigorous, inclusive pedagogy with opportunities for co-curricular activities—including research, internships, and community engagement—the College provides students with diverse learning experiences that helps them thrive, become critical thinkers, and transform society.

College of Letters and Science

The department offers a broad curriculum in dynamic and synoptic meteorology, atmospheric physics and chemistry, and upper atmosphere and space physics.

General Catalog

Theoretical Climatic Dynamics

A&OSCI214

4 units