Ocean Dynamics and Global Climate Variability unit (KSM310)

Introduction

Building on your understanding of oceanographic techniques, observation, and modelling, this unit delves into the dynamics of ocean circulation and its influence on global climate variability.  

You will gain an understanding of fundamental concepts in ocean dynamics across various scales, including ocean turbulence and mixing, eddies, planetary Kelvin and Rossby waves, and the circulation of major ocean current systems.   

These fundamental concepts will be used to explore a range of climate variability phenomena, such as marine heatwaves, climate modes (e.g. ENSO, IOD, and SAM), and the global overturning circulation.   

The unit will discuss the global impacts of these phenomena and the potential for change in the future. Practical sessions will provide hands-on experience using observations, laboratory, and computer models to apply these concepts to realistic ocean conditions. Upon completion of this unit, you will have a robust understanding of the fundamental physical processes that govern ocean circulation and their contribution to climate variability. 

Summary

Unit name	Ocean Dynamics and Global Climate Variability
Unit code	KSM310
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering Institute for Marine & Antarctic Studies
Discipline	Oceans Ice and Climate
Coordinator	Professor Neil Holbrook
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Advanced

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Learning Outcomes

• Discuss fundamental concepts and principles in ocean dynamics.
• Discuss the fundamental link between the ocean and climate system.
• Apply ocean dynamics concepts and principles to conduct oceanographic experiments.
• Critically analyse and report on observations and model experiments of ocean dynamics, climate variability and/or climate change.

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Requisites

Prerequisites

KSA205

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	On-Campus:¿¿Pre-recorded 2-hour lectures, 1-hour seminar. Fortnightly 3-hour practical.¿
Assessment	Assignment 1 - Fundamentals of Ocean Dynamics (20%)|Assignment 2 - Ocean climate change and variability (20%)|Assignment 3 - Large-scale ocean circulation changes (20%)|KSM310 End of Semester Exam (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.