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Global Warming II: Create Your Own Models in Python

Approx. 32 hours to complete

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Course Summary

This course covers the basics of global warming and climate change and teaches students how to create computer models to predict future climate scenarios.

Key Learning Points

Learn the fundamentals of global warming and climate change
Understand the science behind climate models
Create your own climate model to predict future scenarios

Learning Outcomes

Understand the basics of global warming and climate change
Create and run your own computer model
Predict future climate scenarios

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

Basic knowledge of mathematics and physics
Access to a computer with internet connection

Course Difficulty Level

Intermediate

Course Format

Online
Self-paced

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Description

This class provides a series of Python programming exercises intended to explore the use of numerical modeling in the Earth system and climate sciences. The scientific background for these models is presented in a companion class, Global Warming I: The Science and Modeling of Climate Change. This class assumes that you are new to Python programming (and this is indeed a great way to learn Python!), but that you will be able to pick up an elementary knowledge of Python syntax from another class or from on-line tutorials.

Outline

Time-Dependent Energy Balance Model
Welcome
How the Model Works
Scripting and Spreadsheets
Tips for Using Spreadsheets for Numerical Simulation
Tips for Getting Started Coding
Model Formulation
How to Solve Using a Spreadsheet
How to Encode into Python or Fortran
Code Tricks: Heat Capacity, Time Steps, and Equilibration Time

Iterative Runaway Ice-Albedo Feedback Model
How the Model Works
Parameterized Relationship Between T, Ice Latitude, and Albedo
Spreadsheet Instructions
Coding Instructions
Code Trick: Hysteresis Into and Out Of the Snowball

Ice Sheet Dynamics
How the Model Works
Model Formulation
Spreadsheet Tips
Coding
Code Tricks: Time Steps, Snowfall, and Elevation

Pressure, Rotation, and Fluid Flow
How the Model Works
Model Description
Code Trick: Geostrophic Flow and a Drifting Rossby Wave
Code Trick: Gyre Circulation with Westward Intensification

A Model of Climate Changes Today
How the Model Works
Description of the Model Formulation
Tips for Solving in a Spreadsheet
Tips for Encoding
Survey on MOOC technology
Code Trick: Aerosol Masking and Our Future

Summary of User Reviews

Coursera's Global Warming Model course is highly recommended by its users. Many found the course to be informative and eye-opening, providing a better understanding of the science behind climate change.

Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course

The course provides a comprehensive and science-based understanding of global warming and its impact on the planet.

Pros from User Reviews

The course is well-structured and easy to follow.
The instructors are knowledgeable and engaging.
The course materials are up-to-date and based on the latest research.
The course provides practical solutions and actions that individuals and communities can take to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Cons from User Reviews

Some users found the course to be too technical and difficult to understand.
The course may not be suitable for beginners with no prior knowledge of climate science.
Some users felt that the course lacked interactive components and could be more engaging.
The course does not provide a comprehensive overview of policy and political aspects of climate change.

Recommended for you

Global Warming II: Create Your Own Models in Python

This class provides a series of Python programming exercises intended to explore the use of numerical modeling in the Earth system and climate sciences....

Save Course