Backyard Meteorology: The Science of Weather

Last updated on August 9, 2022 4:13 am

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Introduction

Science of Weather: Learn to forecast the weather just by looking out your window.

About this course

The weather forecasts we see every day are based on an army of meteorological sensing networks and intensive computer modeling. Before the rise of these technologies, predictions were made by methods like discerning cloud formations and wind directions.

This course will explore the science behind weather systems by teaching the observational skills needed to make a forecast without using instruments or computer models. We’ll discuss the physical processes driving weather and the global forces that shape global climate systems. Finally, we will examine the limits of prediction in both human observations and computer models.

Can the flap of a butterfly’s wings in Brazil set off a tornado in Texas? Take this course to find out!

What you will learn from the course on ‘Science of Weather’?

• The role of air, water, and wind in weather systems
• To estimate local wind speed and direction
• How to avoid being struck by lightning
• To identify cloud types and features
• Describe the attributes of thunderstorms and tornadoes
• How to collect and interpret data and observations to predict the next day’s weather
• The benefits and drawbacks of weather prediction methods
• The butterfly effect and its application to weather systems

Syllabus

Part 1: Science of Weather: Physical Processes in Weather Systems section

• Overview
• Weather Basics
• Heat Transfer
• The Coriolis Effect
• Global Weather Systems
• Weather Observations and the Weather Diary section

Part 2: Science of Weather: Winds, Weather Masses, Clouds, Fronts in the Temperate Zones section

• Overview
• Clouds
• Fronts and Air Masses

Part 3: Science of Weather: Other Weather Systems section

• Overview
• Thunderstorms, Lightning, and Rainbows
• Cyclones
• Derechos

Part 4: Weather Predictions: Linear and Non-Linear Systems section

• Overview
• Predictions: Linear and Non-Linear Systems
• Weather Prediction Assignment Instructions

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