SCI-171 Introduction to Meteorology
Meteorology is the study of the air around us, the processes that cause weather and the interaction of the atmosphere with the Earth’s surface, ocean and life. This course explores the variables that are the driving force behind weather and climate.
Course Learning Outcomes
- Describe the earth's atmosphere in terms of its parts, components and properties
- Describe the general circulation patterns of the atmosphere and their influence on weather in the Finger Lakes region and the U.S
- Identify the properties and source regions of major air masses and their influence on weather in the Finger Lakes region and the U.S
- Identify the properties of, and differences between, high and low pressure systems
- Describe the formation of the various kinds of fronts and the weather conditions associated with them
- Explore and understand severe weather events like tornadoes and hurricanes
- Describe the role geography plays in the world's weather and climate
- Identify and describe the major climates of the world
- Identify the nature and causes of climate change and the impacts of these changes
- Identify cycles that may be at work to cause long-term changes in the climate system (Milankovitch Cycles)
- Describe how solar energy is the driving force behind the weather
- Describe how our atmosphere is heated and the factors that control its temperature
- Describe the properties of water and how these affect the atmosphere and our weather
- Analyze the hydrological cycle
- Describe and measure atmospheric humidity
- Describe and measure dew point temperature
- Describe various kinds of precipitation and the conditions necessary for their formation
- Describe the cause of wind and its effects on the atmosphere