Chapter U3.49, Problem 2E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : Three variables that meteorologists study in order to make weather predictions are to be described.

Concept Introduction : Weather is a very complicated phenomenon. It refers to clouds, winds, temperature and precipitation in a region at a given time. Meteorologists use maps to keep track of atmospheric conditions and to predict weather. They study different kinds of maps.

Answer to Problem 2E

Three variables that meteorologists study in order to make weather predictions are:

1. Air pressure
2. Temperature
3. Precipitation : Rain/ snow

Explanation of Solution

Weather is a result of interaction between Earth, the atmosphere, Sun and water. Three variables that meteorologists study in order to make weather predictions are:

1. Air pressure- This is very important factor in predicting the weather of a place. High pressure is generally associated with sunny days. Warm fronts and cold fronts are associated with air pressure systems. Regions with high pressure may be cold or hot.
2. Temperature- Meteorologistsrefer to temperature maps to know about the temperatures of various places. They predict the maximum and minimum temperature of a place for the day. The contour lines on temperature map indicate regions with similar temperature conditions. For example, the temperature in North America is colder and warmer in South America.
3. Precipitation: Rain/ snow − Precipitation is very important in predicting weather of a place. If the maps show cloud formation there are chances of rain/ snow. Clouds are more likely to form near the fronts. Meteorologists use precipitation maps to predict if a particular region will receive any rain/ snow. They predict the rain in advance and warn people of any heavy rain/ cyclone or thunderstorm.

Conclusion

Meteorologists use detailed weather maps to keep track on physical changes taking place in atmosphere and monitor the movement of moisture and air around the planet.