E-Book Overview
Atmospheric Processes and Systems presents a concise introduction to the atmosphere and the fundamentals of weather. Examining different aspects of the mass, energy and circulation systems in the atmosphere, this text provides detailed accounts of specific phenomena, including* the composition and structure of the atmosphere* energy transfers* the cycle of atmospheric water in terms of evaporation, condensation and precipitation* pressure and winds at the primary or global scale* secondary air masses and fronts* thermal differences and weather disturbances.The text includes sixteen boxed case studies, annotated further reading lists and a glossary of key terms.
E-Book Content
Atmospheric Processes and Systems The study of atmospheric processes and systems is fundamental to any basic understanding of the nature and functioning of the total physical environment. Such knowledge also provides further insight into extraordinary atmospheric events such as El Niño, which is thought to be responsible for the increasing occurrence of natural disasters in the ‘Pacific Rim’. Atmospheric Processes and Systems presents a concise introduction to the atmosphere and the fundamentals of weather. Examining different aspects of the mass, energy and circulation systems observed in the atmosphere, this book provides detailed yet clearly explained accounts of specific phenomena, including the composition and structure of the atmosphere; energy transfers that take place in the atmosphere and at the Earth’s surface; the cycle of atmospheric water in terms of evaporation, condensation and precipitation; pressure and winds at the primary or global scale, including upper atmosphere circulations and upper air/surface linkages; secondary air masses and fronts, weather disturbances and local winds. Each of the sixteen chapters includes a detailed case study. Illustrated throughout with informative diagrams and photos, Atmospheric Processes and Systems presents a non-technical introduction to complex themes and processes of the atmosphere, which play such a dominant role in shaping our physical environment and in controlling activities and responses in the cultural environment. Russell Thompson is Senior Lecturer in Climatology at the University of Reading. Routledge Introductions to Environment Series, edited by Rita Gardner and Antionette Mannion.
Geography/Environmental Science
Routledge Introductions to Environment Series Published and Forthcoming Titles Titles under Series Editors: Rita Gardner and Antoinette Mannion
Titles under Series Editors: David Pepper and Phil O’Keefe
Environmental Science texts
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