The scientific study of the atmosphere on a global scale, within regions, and at particular localities, and the formation of conclusions as to forthcoming weather. It is especially concerned with the energy budget, water balance, and circulation, and involves the measurement of elements, such as pressure and temperature, instrumentally. Of other elements, such as cloud types and amounts of cloud, visual estimates are made. The interpretation of data and understanding atmospheric processes require a knowledge of mathematics and physics, together with an appreciation of the influence on atmospheric conditions of natural features, such as oceans and mountain ranges, and of unnatural environments such as large urban areas.
Synoptic meteorology is the branch of the science that forms the basis of weather forecasting.
Thermodynamics Bloomsbury Guide to Human Thought 2. A Dictionary of Science, Oxford University Press 3. thermodynamics A Dictionary of Science, Oxford University Press 4. All rights reserved.