Atmosphere : An Introduction to Meteorology

by Lutgens, Frederick K.; Tarbuck, Edward J.; Tasa, Dennis

• ISBN13: 9780130879578
• ISBN10: 0130879576
• Edition: 8th
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2000-07-01
• Publisher: PRENTICE HALL

Summary

Using everyday, easy-to-grasp examples to reinforce basic concepts, this highly regarded handbook remains the standard introduction to meteorology and the atmosphere - components, problems, and applications. Includes the most up-to-date coverage of topics such as: ozone depletion; the ultraviolet index; temperature; dew point temperature and orographic effects; wildfires and weather; thunderstorms and lightning; the record-breaking Florida hurricane season; effects of air pollution, and more. Incorporates top-quality visuals, including new satellite images and illustrations by the award-winning Dennis Tasa, to demonstrate the highly visual nature of meteorology. Uses a largely non-technical writing style to help readers grasp important concepts. For those interested in learning more about meteorology.

Table of Contents

Preface	x
Introduction to the Atmosphere	1	(26)
Heating Earth's Surface and Atmosphere	27	(29)
Temperature	56	(30)
Moisture and Atmospheric Stability	86	(32)
Forms of Condensation and Precipitation	118	(38)
Air Pressure and Winds	156	(28)
Circulation of the Atmosphere	184	(36)
Air Masses	220	(16)
Weather Patterns	236	(32)
Thunderstorms and Tornadoes	268	(31)
Hurricanes	299	(20)
Weather Analysis and Forecasting	319	(28)
Air Pollution	347	(20)
The Changing Climate	367	(23)
World Climates	390	(41)
Optical Phenomena of the Atmosphere	431	(16)
Appendix A Metric Units	447	(3)
Appendix B Explanation and Decoding of the Daily Weather Map	450	(7)
Appendix C Relative Humidity and Dew Point Tables	457	(2)
Appendix D Correcting Mercurial Barometer Readings	459	(5)
Appendix E Laws Relating to Gases	464	(2)
Appendix F Climate Data	466	(5)
Glossary	471	(10)
Index	481