METEOROLOGY MODULE 2 DBA
How do meteorologists study and predict weather?
Meteorologists use tools, such as rain gauges, anemometers, barometers, satellites, and weather balloons, to gather data about conditions in the atmosphere. They analyze these data to learn about the locations and movements of air masses, fronts, and other weather patterns. They can display these patterns using weather maps.
Why is forecasting weather one of the most complicated parts of meteorology>
There is only one independent variable, which is the amount of energy received from the sun, and multiple dependent variables which are constantly changing.
How do meteorologists determine the stability of the atmosphere?
By looking at the rate air rises.
What are some factors that contribute to weather conditions?
Data is taken from the upper air, which is the atmosphere above 5,000 ft, to determine and understand the forecast and impact of weather.
How is weather measured?
Either through direct measurements, which is an instrument that comes in direct contact with the variable being measured, or through indirect measurements, which are observations that're made without the instrument comin in direct contact with the variable being measured.
What tools are used to track weather?
One tool in particular is the weather balloon which has a radiosonde attached to it. So what happens is twice a day, a bunch of scientists around the world send the weather balloon and radiosonde into the sky to record information about the atmosphere that will help forecast weather. Then, of course, the thermometer collects data about temperature, the barometer measures air pressure, and the hygrometer is how humidity is measured.
How do satellites measure weather?
Radiometers are sensors on the satellite that are used to measure electromagnetic energy. They can be imagers or sounders. Imagers measure the amount of radiation given off by the surface and clouds, or the amount of sun's visible light reflected back to space from Earth's surface or clouds. Sounders give information about temperature, pressure, and water vapor in the atmosphere.
Explain the two main kinds of satellites.
The Polar Operation Environmental Satellites move at a slower speed and fly at a lower orbit. The purpose is to produce high-resolution pictures of the Earth, circling it from north to south and back again in about 12 hours. The Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites orbit Earth at the same speed as Earth's rotation to transmit data over the same area continuously.