Run by School of Ocean Sciences

20.000 Credits or 10.000 ECTS Credits

Semester 1

Organiser: Prof Mattias Green

The module aim is to introduce students to the numerical methods used to solve oceanographic problems. The module is specifically aimed at students studying the BSc Ocean and Geophysics (exit point) and MSci Physical Oceanography programmes. The module covers mathematics for oceanography and an introduction to basic programming skills in Matlab, and applies them to problem solving and data analysis of real observations.

Maths Component • A review of basics (including rules of indices, dimensions, scientific notation, functions, logarithms, exponential functions, binomial functions, solution to quadratic); • trigonometry; • matrices; • Calculus 1: differentiation; • Calculus 2: integration; • vectors; • complex numbers; • ordinary differential equations; • partial differential equations

Matlab Programming Component • Basic programming techniques • Data analysis methods • Data visualisation and presentation

threshold

Threshold (grades D- to D+) A basic appreciation of the mathematical tools used used in physical oceanography. Basic ability to master some simple computer techniques associated with programming and data analysis. Basic ability to solve numerical problems using appropriate techniques and to interpret the results.

Complete all practical assignments, deriving some sort of an answer in each case.

good

Good (grades C- to B+) Able to appreciate the mathematical tools used in physical oceanography. Able to master some simple computer techniques associated with programming and data analysis. Good ability to solve numerical problems using appropriate techniques, and to interpret the results. Threshold plus correct assignment work and ability to answer numerical questions logically

excellent

Excellent (grade A- or above) Considerable appreciation of the mathematical tools used in physical oceanography. Considerable ability to master some simple computer techniques associated with programming and data analysis. Thorough ability to define and solve numerical problems using appropriate techniques, and to interpret the results.

Good plus the ability to solve problems without being led.

1. Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the mathematical methods used in physical oceanography.

2. Write efficient computer programs in Matlab

3. Appreciate how to analyse common oceanographic data.

Type	Name	Description	Weight
COURSEWORK	Maths problem sheet	Mathematical problem sheet.	50.00
COURSEWORK	Matlab practicals	Two practical reports on the matlab programming assignments.	50.00

		Hours
Lecture	Mathematics lectures (8 x 1 hour)	8
Practical classes and workshops	MatLab Programming Practicals (7 x 2 hours)	14
Tutorial	Mathematics tutorials (8 x 1 hour)	8
Private study	Working on assessment tasks	170

• Numeracy - Proficiency in using numbers at appropriate levels of accuracy
• Computer Literacy - Proficiency in using a varied range of computer software
• Self-Management - Able to work unsupervised in an efficient, punctual and structured manner. To examine the outcomes of tasks and events, and judge levels of quality and importance
• Critical analysis & Problem Solving - Able to deconstruct and analyse problems or complex situations. To find solutions to problems through analyses and exploration of all possibilities using appropriate methods, rescources and creativity.
• Presentation - Able to clearly present information and explanations to an audience. Through the written or oral mode of communication accurately and concisely.

• Apply subject knowledge to the understanding and addressing of problems.
• Collect, analyse and interpret primary and/or secondary data using appropriate qualitative and/or quantitative techniques.

Reading list

Course notes provided at lectures. Any A-level maths text book

Compulsory in courses:

• F7F6: BSc Ocean and Geophysics year 3 (BSC/OGP)
• F734: MSci Physical Oceanography year 3 (MSCI/PO)