Courses - Faculty of Science
Environmental Physics
Stage I
Sun, Sand, Surf: Science of Aotearoa
The atmosphere, oceans and land make up the dynamic environment of Aotearoa New Zealand. A range of phenomena with natural beauty can be described elegantly with simple scientific laws. This course establishes the physical principles underlying nature, empowering students to explain everyday environmental phenomena. These principles provide the foundation to unravel the science of Earth, climate and environmental change, and energy systems.
Stage II
Earth Observations and Models
An experiential study of applications of environmental physics. The analysis and modelling of laboratory, field and remote sensing observations to explain the state and behaviour of the atmosphere, oceans and the solid earth. Topics include radiation, cloud and aerosol processes, seismic waves and Earth’s magnetic and gravity fields. It develops transferable skills in acquiring measurements, data analytical methods and laboratory techniques.
Prerequisite: 15 points from ENVPHYS 100, PHYSICS 100, 102, 120, 121, 160, EARTHSCI 120 and 15 points from MATHS 108, 110, 120, 130, 199, STATS 101-120
Restriction: GEOPHYS 213
Stage III
Atmosphere, Ocean and Earth Physics
The physics basis for dynamical behaviours of the atmosphere, ocean, and solid earth. Topics include the general circulation in the atmosphere, development of storms and convection, emergence of climate states, as well as seismic, gravitational and magnetic imaging of the Earth's interior. An emphasis is placed on the fundamental conservation laws and processes that control geophysical systems.
Prerequisite: PHYSICS 201, and ENVPHYS 200 or GEOPHYS 213, and 15 points from ENGSCI 211, MATHS 253, 260
Restriction: GEOPHYS 310, 311
Capstone: Environmental Physics
Students will employ core methodologies (experimental, observational, numerical) to investigate some aspect of climate and environmental systems such as key atmospheric, ocean or solid earth geophysical phenomenon. They will relate their findings to contemporary research in the field, considering wider societal aspects and issues. Students will develop their skills in communication, critical thinking, teaching and creative problem solving.
Prerequisite: ENVPHYS 300
Restriction: EARTHSCI 399, GEOG 399, PHYSICS 399
Postgraduate 700 Level Courses
Frontiers in Climate Science
An up-to-date assessment of the state of the climate system that highlights changes in climate pertinent to future change. Evaluates climate using the latest scientific discoveries, evaluates information from observations and models of past, present and future climate. Leverages findings from scientific synthesis efforts and emphasises understanding Earth's climate as a basis for evaluating impacts of climate on wider environment and society.
Prerequisite: ENVPHYS 300
Atmosphere and Ocean Dynamics
Explores physical processes underlying Earth's climate using observations, modelling and predictions. Spans geophysical fluid dynamics, Earth's energy budget, the meridional and vertical heat imbalances, and processes linked to seasonal and long-term climate variations and changes. Explores quasi-geostrophic and wave theory to describe general circulation, Hadley and midlatitude circulations in the atmosphere, Sverdrup balance and western boundary currents in the ocean.
Prerequisite: ENVPHYS 300 or 30 points from PHYSICS 201-203, 231, 240, 244, 251, 261
Restriction: GEOPHYS 711
Subsurface Characterisation with Geophysical Methods
Pertains to subsurface characterisation through the inversion of geophysical observations. The course covers a combination of rock physics, seismic methods, ground-penetrating radar, as well as gravity, magnetic and electrical methods.
Prerequisite: 15 points from EARTHSCI 361, ENVPHYS 300, GEOPHYS 310
Restriction: GEOPHYS 761
Research Project - Level 9
To complete this course students must enrol in ENVPHYS 780 A and B, or ENVPHYS 780