WEATHER AND CLIMATE: ELEMENTS AND INSTRUMENTS
Physical Geography Notes
1. Introduction
Weather refers to the atmospheric conditions of a place over a short period of time, such as hours or
days. Climate is the average weather conditions of a place over a long period of time, usually 30-35
years. Weather changes frequently, while climate is more stable and long-term.
2. Elements of Weather and Climate
Weather and climate are described using several elements. Each element has an instrument used
to measure it.
2.1 Temperature
- Temperature refers to the degree of heat in the atmosphere.
- Instruments:
- Thermometer (mercury/alcohol)
- Maximum and Minimum Thermometer
- Six's Thermometer
2.2 Rainfall (Precipitation)
- Rainfall is the amount of water received from the atmosphere in the form of rain, drizzle, hail, or
snow.
- Instrument: Rain Gauge
2.3 Humidity
- Humidity is the amount of water vapour present in the air.
- Instruments: Hygrometer, Psychrometer (Wet and Dry Bulb)
2.4 Atmospheric Pressure
- Atmospheric pressure is the force exerted by the weight of air on the earth's surface.
Physical Geography Notes
1. Introduction
Weather refers to the atmospheric conditions of a place over a short period of time, such as hours or
days. Climate is the average weather conditions of a place over a long period of time, usually 30-35
years. Weather changes frequently, while climate is more stable and long-term.
2. Elements of Weather and Climate
Weather and climate are described using several elements. Each element has an instrument used
to measure it.
2.1 Temperature
- Temperature refers to the degree of heat in the atmosphere.
- Instruments:
- Thermometer (mercury/alcohol)
- Maximum and Minimum Thermometer
- Six's Thermometer
2.2 Rainfall (Precipitation)
- Rainfall is the amount of water received from the atmosphere in the form of rain, drizzle, hail, or
snow.
- Instrument: Rain Gauge
2.3 Humidity
- Humidity is the amount of water vapour present in the air.
- Instruments: Hygrometer, Psychrometer (Wet and Dry Bulb)
2.4 Atmospheric Pressure
- Atmospheric pressure is the force exerted by the weight of air on the earth's surface.
