Unit Code: PHY923

Unit Name: Atmospheric Physics, Climate Change and Environment

Description: We live on a planet with limited natural resources. Environmental problems are therefore challenges to preserving those limited natural resources. In this course, we will examine the physics elements of environmental problems. Perhaps the most pressing environmental problem being tackled by scientists and policymakers is that of global climate change. Here in the Pacific Islands climate change has a profound effect on our livelihood as small island states. The environmental problems happen on earth and in its atmosphere, therefore this course begins with atmospheric concepts before it moves on the environmental and climate change-related issues. Our lectures will therefore focus on atmospheric physics and climate change - specifically the effects greenhouse gases in the earth’s atmosphere have on the world and our Pacific region. We will also draw our attention to the ozone, traditional and renewable energy sources, and nuclear power. Understanding the physics of these environmental problems and energy sources will help us achieve the noble human goal of preserving the earth’s limited resources.

Learning Target Outcomes: The course will involve theoretical and practical aspects. As a result of successfully completing this course, the students will be able to: 1. Acquire knowledge of environmental topics (ionizing radiation, radioactivity, UV-radiation, atmospheric ozone, greenhouse effect and climate, biological effects related to these and environmental effects due to green energy generation). 2. Critically assess scientifically based evaluations about current important atmospheric, environmental and climate change topics. 3. Perform calculations within selected atmospheric, environmental and climate change topics. 4. Obtain atmospheric and environmental information (data) from external sources to investigate and answer critical question related to the selected atmospheric, environmental and climate change topics. 5. Carry out a research project, write a research paper and present results in a seminar presentation.

Prerequisite: PGD/M.Sc Year 1 Pass or equivalent

Prerequisite Sentence: N/A

Credit Point: 30

Offered In: Semester 1,2