701-1235-00L  Cloud Microphysics

Courses

Catalogue data

Abstract	Clouds are a fascinating atmospheric phenomenon central to the hydrological cycle and the Earth`s climate. Interactions between cloud particles can result in precipitation, glaciation or evaporation of the cloud depending on its microstructure and microphysical processes.
Learning objective	The learning objective of this course is that students understand the formation of clouds and precipitation and can apply learned principles to interpret atmospheric observations of clouds and precipitation.
Content	see: http://www.iac.ethz.ch/edu/courses/master/modules/cloud-microphysics.html and: https://moodle-app2.let.ethz.ch/course/view.php?id=15424
Lecture notes	This course will be designed as a reading course in 1-2 small groups of 10-12 students maximum. It will be based on the textbook below. The students are expected to read chapters of this textbook prior to the class so that open issues, fascinating and/or difficult aspects can be discussed in depth. Check the course website for lecture dates and location.
Literature	Lamb and Verlinde: PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY OF CLOUDS, Cambridge University Press, 2011
Prerequisites / Notice	Target group: Doctoral and Master students in Atmosphere and Climate. A couple spots will be reserved for mobility students.
Competencies	Subject-specific Competencies Concepts and Theories assessed Method-specific Competencies Analytical Competencies assessed Problem-solving assessed Social Competencies Communication assessed Personal Competencies Critical Thinking assessed Self-direction and Self-management assessed

Performance assessment

Performance assessment information (valid until the course unit is held again)
Performance assessment as a semester course
ECTS credits	4 credits
Examiners	Z. A. Kanji, J. Chen, C. Zhang
Type	session examination
Language of examination	English
Repetition	The performance assessment is offered every session. Repetition possible without re-enrolling for the course unit.
Mode of examination	oral 30 minutes
Additional information on mode of examination	The final grade will be based on the oral exam for which a bonus of up to 1/4 grade can be obtained from the assignments. Handing in of the approximately 9 assignments is not mandatory. Students need an average mark of 80% on the assignments (excluding the lowest score) in order to achieve the bonus.
This information can be updated until the beginning of the semester; information on the examination timetable is binding.

Learning materials

Groups

Restrictions

Offered in

Programme	Section	Type
Doctorate Environmental Systems Sciences	Atmosphere and Climate	W
Environmental Sciences Master	Climate Processes and Feedbacks	W