M.Forst.1601: Bioclimatology and global change

Learning outcome:
Scientific basis of climate and climate change, trace gas budgets of soils and whole ecosystems and the potential to sequester carbon and nitrogen in managed and unmanaged terrestrial ecosystems.

Courses and examinations
Bioclimatology and global change (Lecture, 4 SWS)
The module "Bioclimatology and Global Change" will introduce the students to the global climate system and its interaction with the biosphere. A lecture course will focus on the scientific basis of climate and climate change covering basic physical and chemical processes governing the climate system, climate zones, modelling as well as global and regional climate phenomena with a focus on tropical climates. A seminar course will highlight trace gas budgets of soils and whole ecosystems and their potential to sequester carbon and nitrogen in managed and unmanaged terrestrial ecosystems and
their vulnerability to climate change. Using journal literature the students will work out oral presentations concerning current research topics concerning the global climate system and its interaction with the biosphere.

Exam:
Written exam (90 minutes) and oral presentation (ca. 20 minutes)

Prerequisite for examination:
Understanding the most relevant processes at the biosphere-atmosphere interface and of biogeochemical cycles. Being able to find, read, evaluate, and present scientific literature related to Global Change.

Workload:
180 h (56/124 h, Attendance time /Self-study time)


Admission requirements:
None

Recommended previous knowledge:
None

Language:
English

Person responsible for module:
Prof. Dr. Alexander Knohl

Course frequency:
Academic Term each winter semester

Duration:
One semester

Number of repeat examinations permitted:
Twice

Recommended Semester:
First Semester

Maximum number of students:
Unlimited