University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 11.00 am Mon (odd weeks), Wed and Fri

This module will examine current research in fluid dynamics, with a particular focus on meteorology and oceanography. The large-scale atmosphere and oceans behave quite unlike a 'classical' fluid owing to the presence of stable density stratification and rotation. As a result, the fluid motion is dominated by slow, 'vortical' or eddying motions (like cyclones) which generally spin slower than the Earth. Superimposed on this slow motion are relatively fast wave-like motions analogous to surface waves on a pond. These lectures describe the mathematical basis of these fundamentally different types of motion, and furthermore illustrate the increasingly important role of computer modelling in this research.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass MT4509

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2.5 lectures (weeks 1 - 10) and 1 tutorial (weeks 2 - 11).

Scheduled learning hours: 35

Guided independent study hours: 165

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2.5-hour Written Examination = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 100%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 0%

Re-assessment: 2-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel