MSc Pollution & Environmental Control / Course details

Following on from part 1, we emphasize the use of models to make predictions and to aid in the interpretation of measurements in the Environmental Sciences. We begin with an introduction on the use of models in the Environmental Sciences, drawing on examples from the current state-of-science literature and a discussion of the merits and limitations of various approaches.

We then run a series of lectures and practical sessions where the focus is on discussing and using a selection of different models and students are able to gain insight into relevant computational models by using a combination of baseline simulations and sensitivity tests. Each week a new modelling approach will be introduced in a lecture, and students will gain hands-on experience in using models and interpreting model output. The emphasis is on how the models relate to the real world, rather than computational details, in addition to developing the relevant vocabulary for describing and interpreting model output.

To further prepare students to carry out an independent research project by providing hands-on experience in the use of models to make predictions and to aid in the interpretation of measurements of pollutant mobility and transformation.

2-hour lecture plus 3-hour practical on computer cluster each week.

Content

1. Use of ‘parcel models’ in Environmental Sciences

Lecture: the use of parcel models in atmospheric research

Practical: influence of aerosol particles in the atmosphere.

2. Diffusion, mixing, and turbulence in Environmental Modelling (transport and mixing of pollutants).

Lecture: Air quality

Practical: Gaussian Plume Modelling practical (linked to traffic flow modelling)

3. Broad overview: 1-D models in Environmental Science

Lecture: How aerosols affect precipitation

Practical: Modelling rainfall / precipitation

4. Dynamics governing the movement of the ocean / atmosphere.

Lecture: Ocean and Atmospheric Circulations

Practical: Shallow Fluid Modelling

5. 3D modelling and data

Lecture: determining the origin of polluted air

Practical: back-trajectory modelling

6. Q+A session

• 2-hour lecture per week covering a different modelling approach; the relevant theory; and usage cases for the model, with examples.
• 3-hour computer practical each week, with guided learning where students download and use models to simulate environmental processes, and plot / interpret the results.
• On-line JavaScript models for formative learning, which can be used away from the University.
• Binder web-pages demonstrating python routines to plot and interpret model data.
• Supplemented with on-line video to aid with technical tasks.
• Formative assessment through on-line BB tests with immediate feedback is given each week.
• Summative assessment is by a single on-line open book examination using questions in the same style as the formative tests and with immediate feedback.

Jacobson. 1999. ``Fundamentals of Atmospheric Modelling’’. ``Cambridge University Press’’.

Seinfeld et al. 2006. Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics: From Air Pollution to Climate Change. 2nd ed. Wiley.

Practical Meteorology (Free e-book):

https://www.eoas.ubc.ca/books/Practical_Meteorology/