Climate and Weather 1

Temperature

The measure of how hot or cold an object or environment is, typically measured in degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit. It is a key factor in determining weather conditions.

Precipitation

Any form of water, liquid or solid, that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

Wind

The movement of air from high to low pressure areas, which plays a significant role in weather patterns and climate.

Humidity

The amount of water vapor present in the air, often expressed as a percentage of the maximum amount of water vapor that can be held at a given temperature.

Cloudiness

The fraction of the sky covered by clouds, which can affect temperature and precipitation.

Atmospheric Pressure

The force exerted by the weight of air above a given point, influencing weather patterns and wind movement.

Sunshine

The amount of sunlight reaching the Earth's surface, which affects temperature and can influence weather conditions.

Anemometers

Instruments used to measure wind speed and direction, crucial for weather forecasting and study of atmospheric conditions.

Wind Vanes

Devices that indicate wind direction, helping in weather forecasting and navigation.

Barometers

Instruments used to measure atmospheric pressure, essential for predicting weather changes.

Hygrometers

Instruments used to measure humidity levels in the air, important for understanding weather patterns and climate conditions.

Lightning Detector

A device used to detect and locate lightning strikes by measuring electromagnetic signals, aiding in weather monitoring and safety.

Rain Gauges

Instruments used to collect and measure the amount of liquid precipitation over a set period, essential for weather analysis and water resource management.

Thermometers

Instruments that measure air temperature, crucial for weather forecasting and monitoring climate changes.

Weather

the state of the atmosphere at a given time, including temperature, humidity, wind, and precipitation.

Climate

the long-term average of temperature, humidity, wind, and precipitation in a particular area, typically measured over 30 years or more.

Arctic Climate

characterized by extremely cold temperatures, low precipitation, and permafrost. It has a long winter and a short summer.

Tropical Climate

characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year, with significant rainfall. It often features distinct wet and dry seasons.

Temperate Climate

characterized by moderate temperatures and distinct seasons, with warm summers and cool winters, often featuring adequate rainfall throughout the year.

latitude

The distance north or south of the equator, measured in degrees, which influences climate and weather patterns.

longitude

The distance east or west of the prime meridian, measured in degrees, which affects time zones and geographic location.

Prime Meridian

The planet's zero degrees longitude line, running from the North to South Pole, which serves as the reference point for determining time zones.