20291 Introduction to Meteorology

Credits: 4 intermediate credits in Meteorology or in Physics

Prerequisites: none

Recommended: Fundamentals of Physics (or Fundamentals of Physics I + Fundamentals of Physics II)

Authors: Yoav Yair, Baruch Ziv, Yoram Kirsh

The course provides basic knowledge and understanding of processes occurring in the atmosphere. It describes and explains a variety of familiar weather phenomena. The mechanisms operating in the atmosphere and the physical laws on which they are based are described without need for technical-mathematical knowledge. Therefore, only basic knowledge of Chemistry, Physics and Geography is required. Video clips presenting a wide range of meteorological phenomena, recorded audio lectures on topics related to the material, and use of the Internet to search for and analyze meteorological information, are integrated into the course.

Topics: The structure and composition of the atmosphere – gases, their origin and processes they are involved in; division of the atmosphere into layers based on physical characteristics; radiative transfer, and the greenhouse effect. The atmosphere in motion – atmospheric pressure, pressure systems (such as depressions and highs) and their relationship to wind. Clouds and rainfall – microphysical processes of cloud and rain formation, types of clouds based on properties and shape; fog and thunderstorms. Weather systems – global weather systems, ocean currents, storm types (tornado, hurricane) and the processes taking place in them. Weather in Israel – weather systems in the Middle East in the various seasons, rainfall in Israel, the heatwave (sharav) phenomenon. Meteorology in the modern age – advanced meteorological measurement methods, weather prediction methods, weather modification, atmospheric changes – the ozone hole, global warming. Meteorology and aviation – weather phenomena dangerous to aviation: icing, hail, lightning, wind and turbulence (elective topic).