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This course offers a series of Python programming exercises designed to introduce students to the use of numerical modelling in Earth system and climate science. A companion class, Global Warming I: The Science and Modeling of Climate Change, provides the scientific foundation for these models. This class assumes you are new to Python programming (and it is a great way to learn Python! ), but that you will be able to pick up an elementary understanding of Python syntax from another class or online tutorials.
Syllabus :
1. Time-Dependent Energy Balance Model
- Welcome
- How the Model Works
2. Iterative Runaway Ice-Albedo Feedback Model
- The ideas behind this model were explained in Unit 7, Feedbacks, in Part I of this class. First we get to generate simple linear "parameterization" functions of planetary albedo and the latitude to which ice forms (colder = lower latitude ice). Second, for any given value of the solar constant, L, we'll use iteration to find consistent values of albedo and T, to show the effect of the ice albedo feedback on Earth's temperature, running away to fall into the dreaded "snowball Earth".
3. Ice Sheet Dynamics
- Ice flows like extra-thick molasses, downhill. The shape of the ice sheet (altitude versus distance across) is determined by the relationship between ice surface slope and the flow rate of the ice.
4. Pressure, Rotation, and Fluid Flow
- Planetary rotation and fluid flow were explained in Part I of this class, Unit 6, on Weather and Climate.
5. A Model of Climate Changes Today
- Background for this model was presented in Part I of this class, Unit 9, The Perturbed Carbon Cycle.
