Meteorologists usually specialize in one type of work. General Forecasters provide weather summaries for limited geographic areas. Specialized Forecasters develop forecasts for use in agriculture, aviation, forestry, and marine operations. Research Meteorologists study atmospheric physics to advance meteorological theory and to improve mathematical models of atmospheric activity. They may study the dispersal of air pollutants over urban areas, severe storm mechanics, weather modification, and new weather prediction techniques.
Climatologists study climatic variations spanning hundreds or even millions of years.
Environmental problems, such as pollution, and shortage of food, fuel, and water, have widened the scope of the meteorological profession. Meteorologists also teach their subject at universities. Consulting meteorologists provide specialized information to both the private and public sectors. In theoretical research, they investigate the interactions of atmospheric gases and the dynamics of the earth's environment. Specialists in applied research take the information of the theoretical researchers and use it in the design of aircraft, control of air pollution, improved communication, city planning, and safer transportation.