ERSC2001 – EARTH & LIFE (4 credits)
Pre-requisites: ERSC1001 Dynamic Earth
Syllabus: What is life? Atoms & molecules. The formation of the solar system. Hypotheses
on the origins of life. Factors that make the earth hospitable to life. Temperature regulation of the earth. The carbon cycle. The impact of volcanism on the Earth system. The role of plate tectonics as an influence on climate.Climate modelling of atmospheric oxygen during the Phanerozoic.
Development of the Earth’s atmosphere during the Cryptozoic. Regulation of atmospheric oxygen during the Phanerozoic. The importance of ozone in shielding life from harmful radiation.
Climate modelling of atmospheric carbon dioxide during the Phanerozoic. Life in the Phanerozoic.
The links between the evolution of land plants and global atmospheric conditions. Case studies for environmental conditions during two scenarios:
Teaching: Two lectures, one tutorial and three hours of labs per week.
Method Of Assesment:
| Theory Examination (3 hours) |
60% |
| Examination: Laboratory |
20% |
| In-course assignments/tests |
20% |
METE2300 – HYDRO-METEOROLOGY (4 Credits)
Pre requisites: MATH1120 Calculus I & MATH1130 Calculus II.
Syllabus: The hydrological cycle. Water balance concepts. Precipitation measurement and analysis. Interception and interception loss. Evaporation and evapotranspiration. Infiltration measurement and estimation. Rainfall-runoff processes. Hydrologic simulation.
Teaching: Two (2) lectures, one (1) tutorial and two (2) hours of practical per week.
Method of Assesment:
| Final Theory Examination (2 hours) |
60% |
| In-course assignments/tests |
40% |
|
