PHSI243 Environmental Physics

Basic physical processes of the Sun, the atmosphere, the oceans and the Earth. The green-house effect and the role of energy processes. Opportunities for mitigation including new energy technologies.

The aim of this paper is to understand environmental processes by the application of quantitative methods and basic physical ideas. A key focus is on the atmosphere and global warming. Lectures, practical laboratory sessions, assignments and a research essay have been designed to develop analytical and critical-thinking skills through an examination of the peer-reviewed science about climate change.

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Prerequisite

One of PHSI 131, PHSI 132, PHSI 191, PHSI 110

Pre or Corequisite

MATH 160 or MATH 170

Schedule C

Science

Contact

inga.smith@otago.ac.nz

More information link

View more information about PHSI 243

Teaching staff

Course co-ordinator: Dr Inga Smith
Dr Annika Seppälä

Textbooks

Text books are not required for this paper.

Graduate Attributes Emphasised

Global perspective, Interdisciplinary perspective, Lifelong learning, Scholarship, Communication, Critical thinking, Environmental literacy, Information literacy, Research, Self-motivation, Teamwork.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.

Learning Outcomes

After completing this paper students will be able to:

1. Use basic physical principles to understand environmental processes with emphasis on the atmosphere and climate change
2. Sketch graphs and diagrams that illustrate fundamental physical phenomena
3. Perform calculations of fundamental physical phenomena
4. Communicate technical information clearly, both in written form and verbally
5. Work cooperatively and productively in a team situation in a laboratory and tutorial setting
6. Develop analytical and critical-thinking skills through an examination of the peer-reviewed science about climate change

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