Turbulent Boundary Layers in the Atmosphere and Ocean

About this programme

This course introduces the structure of the atmospheric turbulent boundary layer and the similar layers that are found in the ocean. Some turbulence theory as well as empirical methods to analyse and understand these layers are covered. What controls the depth of the layer and how turbulent it is as well as the efficient mixing and turbulent transport is discussed. How these processes influence the dynamics on the meso- and synoptic scales as well as the general circulation of the atmosphere and ocean are also considered. Methods on how to solve problems related to the boundary layer as well as how it is observed and modeled are also covered in the course as well as providing concepts to understand how pollutants are dispersed. The course starts with introduction to turbulence and how a boundary layer is defined. The equations of motion are derived for the layer using Reynolds averaging. Similarity theory for the lowest part of the boundary layer, the surface layer, is introduced and established through empirical data. The influence of stability and rotation is discussed as well as the influence on the larger scales and dispersion. Students with a background in Atmospheric Physics and Chemistry (MO4000), Meteorology I (MO8001), and Meteorology II (MO8002), can easily follow the course. The course is composed of lectures and exercises and two labs, one with observations of primarily the near surface wind and one where the diurnal cycle of near surface variables and the boundary layer structure are studied using a single-column model.