Weather and Climate

Weather Weather is the condition of the atmosphere at a certain time an place. Air Temp – Heat in the atmosphere, measured by thermometer Humidity – amount of water vapor in the air

More Weather Terms Wind – movement of air over the earth’s surface. Clouds – masses of tiny water droplets suspended in air. Precipitation – water falling to earth in any form. Ex. Rain, snow, sleet, hail, drizzle.

Air Pressure Air Pressure – weight of the air measured by barometer. High elevation less pressure. Low Elevation higher pressure Cool air has more pressure……why?

The Sun The weather on earth is caused by the uneven distribution of the sun’s energy. Most weather systems in the US move from West to East. The Sun powers the water cycle

Water Cycle The sun evaporates the water. Water in the atmosphere condenses to form clouds. Precipitation returns the water to the ground. Animation

Climate Climate is the average weather in an area. Latitude – further from the equator, colder the climate. Altitude – higher elevation has cooler climate Water – the closer to water, the more cool the summers and warmer the winters.

Air Masses A body of air with uniform temperature and moisture. A representation of where they were formed. Over land – dry Over water – moist Near equator – warm Near Poles - Cold

Fronts The leading edge of an air mass. Strong winds and precipitation occur between two fronts. Cold air mass is called cold front Warm air mass is called a warm front.

Highs and Lows High – Air sinks and blows air outward and clockwise. Clear skies and dry weather. Low – Air rises and sucks air in and counterclockwise Wet weather and strong winds.