Module manager: Douglas Parker
Email: D.J.Parker@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
SOEE1302 Advanced Mathematics 1 AND SOEE1312 Advanced Mathematics 2 (or equivalent, to ensure some experience of vector calculus).
| SOEE5835M | Advanced Atmosphere and Ocean Dynamics |
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module deals with the way in which we can understand, interpret and predict the flow of air and of water in the Earth's environment. The syllabus begins with discussion of the general properties of fluids, with relevance to interpreting and understanding their motion (such as the evolution of vortices), before moving to explore the flows of air and water in the environment. Simple models related to atmospheric, oceanic and river flows will be developed. Practical work is used to investigate these topics. The module would be of interest to any students interested in the physical environment and is relevant to many applications, such as pollution transport, hydrology or sedimentology. It would also represent a good introduction to fluid dynamics for Physical Scientists, or a complement to other fluids modules studied by Engineers or Mathematicians.
On completion of this module, students will understand the basic principles of Newtonian fluid mechanics, with an emphasis on the flow of air and water. They will be familiar with the Navier-Stokes equations, and the scale analysis which leads to simplified forms that are used in practice. The behaviour of incompressible, inviscid flows will be covered in some detail. The module will illustrate the theoretical ideas by reference to observations of real environmental flows. Students will apply this knowledge to practical work using model and laboratory data. They will develop skills in managing and handling diverse data types.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Apply the relevant terminology associated with the fluid dynamics of the atmosphere and ocean, and associated mathematics, in order to understand and interpret scientific reports and papers in the field.
2. Understand the physical principles behind the fundamental equations governing the dynamics of the atmosphere and ocean.
3. Apply understanding of the physics and mathematics of fluid flow to solve basic conceptual and theoretical problems.
4. Apply understanding of the physics and mathematics of fluid flow to analysis of fluid dynamical experimental data.
Skills Learning Outcomes
1. Understand relationships between mathematical, physical, digital and applied aspects of a given problem using quantitative and heuristic approaches [Academic, Digital, Work-ready].
2. Applying knowledge and understanding to address familiar and unfamiliar problems [Academic].
3. Problem solving and analytical – Ability to apply dynamical concepts to a variety of questions in fluid dynamics [Academic and Work-ready].
4. Information technology skills - Ability to analyse and visualise data in order to apply dynamical concepts to a fluid dynamical problem [Digital and Technical].
5. Time management and planning - Developing the skills necessary for self-managed and lifelong learning (working independently, time management and organisation skills) [Work-ready].
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 20 | 1 | 20 |
| Practical | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Seminar | 4 | 1 | 4 |
| Private study hours | 74 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 26 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100 | ||
Student submit answers to 4 examples sheets, staged throughout the semester, for formative marking and feedback during the 4 in-person examples classes.
Feedback is given on the written practical project report.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Coursework | 30 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 30 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Open Book exam | 1.0 Hrs 0 Mins | 70 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 70 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 29/04/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team