 Atmospheric
science is the study of the atmosphere -- the blanket of air covering
the Earth. Atmospheric scientists, commonly
called meteorologists, study the atmosphere's physical characteristics,
motions, and processes, and the way in which these factors affect the
rest of our environment. The best known application of this knowledge is
forecasting the weather. In addition to predicting the weather,
atmospheric scientists attempt to identify and interpret climate trends,
understand past weather, and analyze today's weather. Weather
information and meteorological research are also applied in
air-pollution control, agriculture, forestry, air and sea
transportation, defense, and the study of possible trends in the Earth's
climate, such as global warming, droughts, and ozone depletion.
 Atmospheric
scientists who forecast the weather are known as operational
meteorologists; they are the largest group of specialists. These
scientists study the Earth's air pressure, temperature, humidity, and
wind velocity, and they apply physical and mathematical relationships to
make short-range and long-range weather forecasts. Their data come from
weather satellites, radars, sensors, and stations in many parts of the
world.
 Meteorologists use sophisticated computer models of the world's
atmosphere to make long-term, short-term, and local-area forecasts. More
accurate instruments for measuring and observing weather conditions, as
well as high-speed computers to process and analyze weather data, have
revolutionized weather forecasting. Using satellite data, climate
theory, and sophisticated computer models of the world's atmosphere,
meteorologists can more effectively interpret the results of these
models to make local-area weather predictions. These forecasts inform
not only the general public, but also those who need accurate weather
information for both economic and safety reasons, such as the shipping,
air transportation, agriculture, fishing, forestry, and utilities
industries.
 Meteorologists
use data collected from sophisticated technologies like atmospheric
satellite monitoring equipment and ground-based radar systems. Doppler
radar, for example, can detect airflow patterns in violent storm
systems, allowing forecasters to better predict thunderstorms, flash
floods, tornadoes, and other hazardous winds, and to monitor the
direction and intensity of storms. They also monitor surface weather
stations and launch weather balloons, which carry equipment that
measures wind, temperature, and humidity in the upper atmosphere.
While meteorologists study and forecast weather patterns in the short
term, climatologists study seasonal variations in weather over months,
years, or even centuries. They may collect, analyze, and interpret past
records of wind, rainfall, sunshine, and temperature in specific areas
or regions. Some look at patterns in weather over past years to
determine, for example, whether a coming season will be colder or warmer
than usual. Their studies are used to design buildings, plan heating and
cooling systems, and aid in effective land use and agricultural
production.
 Some
atmospheric scientists work exclusively in research. Physical
meteorologists, for example, study the atmosphere's chemical and
physical properties; the transmission of light, sound, and radio waves;
and the transfer of energy in the atmosphere. They also study other
atmospheric phenomena, such as the factors affecting the formation of
clouds, rain, and snow; the dispersal of air pollutants over urban
areas; and the mechanics of severe storms. Environmental problems, such
as pollution and shortages of fresh water, have widened the scope of the
meteorological profession. Environmental meteorologists study these
problems and may evaluate and report on air quality for environmental
impact statements. Other research meteorologists examine the most
effective ways to control or diminish air pollution.
Note:
Some resources in this section are provided by the the US Department
of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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