Right now: Get 7.4 notes & notebook paper Agenda: 7.4 Power point and notes TN Standard: I can analyze meteorological data to predict weather conditions.

Why do you think it is important to forecast the weather?

If you did not have the benefit of the weather forecast on the news, radio, TV or the internet… How would you forecast the weather? THINK ABOUT IT…

 A meteorologist is a person who observes and collects data on atmospheric conditions to make weather predictions.  Meteorologists generate a weather forecast, which is a prediction of weather conditions over the next 5-7 days.

Where do meteorologists get their information? Today you will learn how instruments along with technology are used to create forecasts.

 Meteorologists measure various atmospheric conditions: Can you name some from our collection of weather data?  Be a “Meteorologist” to your partner and list as many as you can think of on the Post-It notes at your table!

WEATHER BALLOONS carry electronic equipment that can measure weather conditions as high as 30 km (18 miles) above Earth’s surface. They’re launched twice daily. They carry equipment that measures:  temperature  air pressure  relative humidity  wind speed  direction of the wind They carry radio transmitters that send measurements around the world.

Weather Balloon

What do your parents use to measure your temperature? Thermometer How does a thermometer work?

A BAROMETER is used to measure air pressure sometimes called barometric pressure. Aneroid Barometer Remember: 31–32 = fair, pretty days 30 = weather starts changing = rain to stormy Mercury Barometer

 How do you think a windsock works?  Why is a windsock often seen at airports? Windsock

 Have you ever seen a weather vane up on a roof of a barn or house?  Why do you think they are placed there?  How do you think a wind vane works? A.k.a. Weather Vane

An instrument used to measure wind speed is called an ANEMOMETER. It consists of 3-4 cups connected by spokes to a pole. Anemometer

 RADAR is used to find the location, movement, amount, and form of precipitation.  Doppler Radar – used to track precipitation  What technology does a radar use?

 Bats use the Doppler effect to locate prey and to navigate. Bats emit high-frequency sounds that bounce off objects. If the objects are moving, then the wave frequency changes. If the frequency does not change, then the bat knows the object is stationary.

 Orbit the Earth  Provide images of weather systems that are featured on the weather reports, tracks storms, measures humidity, wind speeds, temperatures at different altitudes.

In 1735, Ben Franklin said, “Some people are weatherwise, but most are otherwise.” With all the technology available to us today, forecasting the weather is relatively easy for anyone to access. We’re more familiar with the tools and concepts of weather forecasting. Weather plays an important role in your life and well as the lives of others.

On a piece of paper, write the name of the instrument and what it measures