Click to show Site menu [+]

Available in 2012

Callaghan CampusSemester 2

Previously offered in 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005

This course provides a basic introduction to climatology and hydrometerology in the context of the regional hydrologic cycle. The course covers atmospheric circulation, ocean-atmosphere interaction and rainfall variability. Regional climatic conditions and geologic parent material are important in the development of soils. The soil science component of this course deals with soil profile description, soil classification systems and descriptive soil properties. The relationships between climate and soils, land use and runoff is examined in detail in this course.

In order to participate in this course, students must complete a compulsory Workplace Health and Safety requirement. Students will receive full information on this compulsory component in the course outline provided by the school.

Objectives
Students who successfully complete this subject will:

1. have an understanding of the components of atmospheric circulation, the hydrologic cycle and the basic relationships which exist between climatologic variables, soil forming processes and soil development;
2. be able to undertake laboratory and field based measurements in climatology and soil science;
3. be able to undertake predictive calculations associated with hydrologic process and measurement;
4. understand the relationship which exists between climate, soil, land-use management and runoff in a regional context.
Content
The following topics will be covered in this course: Physics of climate and general circulation; Atmospheric moisture, clouds and precipitation; Atmospheric circulation and weather of Australasia; Ocean-atmosphere interactions and rainfall variability; Regional and small scale climates; Regional hydrological balance (precipitation, evaporation and transpiration); Hydrometeorology and analysis of rainfall data; Soil forming processes; Soil profile description and key characteristics; Soil classification systems and mapping; Soil moisture/water balance interactions; Land use management and problem soils in Australasia.
Replacing Course(s)
This course replaces part of GEOS2030 Biogeography and Climatology and part of EMGT2010 Soils and Hydrology.
Transition
This course cannot be counted for credit with GEOS2030 and EMGT2010.
Industrial Experience
0
Assumed Knowledge
GEOS1040 Earth's Dynamic Systems and either GEOS1050 Earth's Processes and Products or ENVS1060 Environmental Chemical & Physical Processes.
Modes of Delivery
Internal Mode
Teaching Methods
Field Study
Lecture
Practical
Assessment Items
Essays / Written Assignments
Examination: Formal
Final examination
Laboratory Exercises
Practical/laboratory exercises
Reports
Field reports
Contact Hours
Field Study: for 16 hour(s) per Term for Full Term
Practical: for 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Lecture: for 3 hour(s) per Week for Full Term

Timetables