Surface Hydrology

Course content

The course adds on to fundamental understanding of surface hydrology with focus on measurements and estimation of precipitation, run off and evapotranspiration. We evaluate the most common methods for estimation of theses parameters and discuss the uncertainties associated with both measurement and modelling methods. Emphasis will be put in the understanding of transport of energy and water in the lower parts of the atmosphere and on how the surface energy balance controls the evapotranspiration from the surface. Sensitivity to prevailing climatic parameters is discussed in relation to the water balance components and effects on surface hydrology of potential changes in climate and land-use effects are assessed.

Education

MSc Programme in Environmental Science

MSc Programme in Geography and Geoinformatics
MSc Programme in Geography and Geoinformatics with a minor subject

 

Learning outcome

Knowledge:

Students can expect to obtain advanced understanding of the components in water balance of the surface and how these are affected by the prevailing climate. Learning will be obtained through working with measured data and use of simple ecosystem modelling.

Skills:

  • Ability to access and correct precipitation, run off and evapotranspiration in the Danish landscape.
  • Understand the role of vegetation and soil properties in the transport of water and the exchange between vegetation, soil and atmosphere.
  • Ability to address these processes with quantitative descriptions and ecosystem models

 

Competences:

  • Evaluate the sensitivity of climatic parameters on estimation of evapotranspiration, through the use of Penman –Monteith Ep model
  • Fundamental understanding of environmental biophysics and biogeography
  • Handle large datasets related to water balance and meteorological components
  • Ability to structure a written assignments and present results related to surface hydrology.

Lectures, computer exercises and student presentations in class. For the teaching plan, please see Absalon.

Textbook and additional materials, please see Absalon course page for details.

BSc in Geography and Geoinformatics or equivalent hydrological background is recommended.

Academic qualifications equivalent to a BSc degree is recommended.

Continuous feedback during the course of the semester
Peer feedback (Students give each other feedback)
ECTS
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Written assignment, during course
Oral examination, 20 min
The written assignment is prepared during the course and must be handed in prior to the exam week. The oral exam uses the written assignment as its point of departure. It includes the titles listed in the officially approved reading list. A combined grade is given after the oral exam.
Aid
All aids allowed
Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
No external censorship
Several internal examiners.
Criteria for exam assessment

Please see learning outcomes

Single subject courses (day)

  • Category
  • Hours
  • Preparation
  • 171
  • Theory exercises
  • 35
  • English
  • 206