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701-1221-00L 4 Credits BSC , DR , MSC D-USYS , D-ERDW , D-MATH

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Dynamics of Large-Scale Atmospheric Flow

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Heini Wernli, Dr. Lukas Papritz

VVZ CR 4.4

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:36:19

Abstract

This lecture course is about the fundamental aspects of the dynamics of extratropical weather systems (quasi-geostropic dynamics, potential vorticity, Rossby waves, baroclinic instability). The fundamental concepts are formally introduced, quantitatively applied and illustrated with examples from the real atmosphere. Exercises (quantitative and qualitative) form an essential part of the course.

Objective

Understanding the dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow

Content

Dynamical Meteorology is concerned with the dynamical processes of the earth's atmosphere. The fundamental equations of motion in the atmosphere will be discussed along with the dynamics and interactions of synoptic system - i.e. the low and high pressure systems that determine our weather. The motion of such systems can be understood in terms of quasi-geostrophic theory. The lecture course provides a derivation of the mathematical basis along with some interpretations and applications of the concept.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Dynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow

Literature

- Holton J.R., An introduction to Dynamic Meteorogy. Academic Press, fourth edition 2004, - Pichler H., Dynamik der Atmosphäre, Bibliographisches Institut, 456 pp. 1997

Learning Materials (Links)

Main link
Information

General Information

Language: English
Levels: BSC , DR , MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: written 120 minutes
Aids: none

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	Dynamics of Large-Scale Atmospheric Flow	Wed 09:15-11:00 (ML F 36)	2 h weekly
exercise	Dynamics of Large-Scale Atmospheric Flow	Wed 11:15-12:00 (ML F 36)	1 h weekly

Offered In

Computational Science and Engineering Bachelor
- For All Programme Regulations
  - Additional Electives from the Fields of Specialization (CSE Master)
Computational Science and Engineering Master
- Fields of Specialization
  - Physics of the Atmosphere
Mathematics Master
- Application Area (Only necessary and eligible for the Master degree in Applied Mathematics. One of the application areas specified must be selected for the category Application Area for the Master degree in Applied Mathematics. At least 8 credits are required in the chosen application area.)
  - Atmospherical Physics
Environmental Sciences Master
- Major in Atmosphere and Climate
  - Weather Systems and Atmospheric Dynamics
  - Electives
    - Climate Processes and Feedbacks
Atmospheric and Climate Science Master
- Electives (The students are free to choose individually from the entire course offer of ETH Zürich and the universities of Zürich and Bern.)
  - Climate Processes and Feedbacks (Two additional courses are offered in HS by University of Berne.)
- Modules
  - Weather Systems and Atmospheric Dynamics
Doctoral Department of Environmental Sciences (More Information at: )
- Environmental Sciences
  - Atmosphere and Climate