Understanding Weather and Climate (2nd Edition)

Written in an exceptionally clear, informal style filled with anecdotes and examples, this introduction to meteorology emphasizes a non-mathematical understanding of physical principles as a vehicle for learning about atmospheric processes. It focuses on explaining--rather than simply describing--the processes that produce Earth's weather and climate, and provides special emphasis on severe weather and how it impacts humans. An accompanying CD-ROM features a series of tutorials, illustrative movie loops, interactive animations, and more that explain difficult-to-visualize topics. A companion Web site offers additional resources. Features current coverage on a wide variety of topics: composition and structure of the atmosphere; solar radiation and the seasons; energy balance and temperature; atmospheric moisture; cloud development and forms; precipitation processes; atmospheric pressure and wind; atmospheric circulation and pressure distributions; air masses and fronts; mid-latitude cyclones; lightning, thunder, and tornadoes; tropical storms and hurricanes; weather forecasting and analysis; human effects: air pollution and heat islands; earth's climates; climate changes. For anyone interested in an accessible introduction to Meteorology.