Time Schedule:
Becky Alexander Suess
ATM S 458
Seattle Campus
Global atmosphere as a chemical system. Physical factors and chemical processes. Natural variability and anthropogenic change. Cycling of trace substances. Global issues such as climate change, acidic deposition, influences on biosphere. Prerequisite: either ATM S 358 or CHEM 456. Offered: jointly with CHEM 458; A.
Class description
This course examines the atmosphere as a chemical reactor. We review basic physical chemical concepts to describe the factors which govern the sources, transformations, and removal of species in the atmosphere. We then apply these concepts to a wide array of atmospheric phenomena: stratospheric ozone depletion, tropospheric pollution, cloud chemistry (acid rain), atmosphere-biosphere exchange, and composition-climate interactions. Prerequisite can be waived with permission of instructor.
Student learning goals
Identify the similarities and differences in the chemical processes occuring in the various regions of the atmosphere
Be able to apply fundamental physical and chemical concepts to describe why and when atmospheric composition changes.
Quantitatively assess the role of human activities on atmospheric composition.
Analyze atmospheric observations to derive an understanding of the underlying chemical and physical mechanisms.
Describe the important couplings between the atmosphere and other Earth subsystems and their implications for feedbacks.
General method of instruction
A combination of lectures, group problem solving, and literature discussions are used.
Recommended preparation
Some general chemistry is helpful, but perhaps most useful is a strong foundation in algebra, simple calculus and first-year university physics.
Class assignments and grading
Problem sets will be solved in class in a group setting. There will be 4 in-class, graded exams. There is also a final project where students chose a problem to research in greater detail and submit a 10-15 pg paper at the end of the quarter.
Grades are assigned based on in-class exams, the quality of the problem sets, the final project, and to a small degree on participation and the discussion of assigned readings.
