Something in the Air: Atmospheric Circulation Patterns
While Hadley cells are generally considered to be the most basic of atmospheric cells, there are a number of other air circulation patterns, as well. These include the east-to-west moving Walker cells, and the circulation zone located near the equat...
Deep Connections: Deep Ocean Circulation and Global Climate
Some scientists are concerned that just as thermohaline circulation has changed significantly over time, it could change again and possibly cause abrupt climate change in both the United States and Europe.
Something in the Air: Interplay Between Atmosphere and Ocean
The interplay between atmosphere and ocean plays a role in nearly all weather events. The two bodies are in continuous contact with one another, and each influences conditions in the other.
Something in the Air: Coriolis Force, The
The Coriolis Effect, named for 19th century French scientist Gaspard Gustave Coriolis, describes the apparent force that arises when an object that is moving is viewed in a reference frame that is rotating.
Something in the Air: Meteorological Research: Challenges for the Future
Although a great deal of progress has been made in the field of meteorological research, there is much that remains a mystery, at least in part because the climate system is so unpredictable.
Something in the Air: Heat, Pressure and Atmospheric Circulation Cells
The movement of heat around the globe is one of the most critical components of Earth's climate system. The circuits of air that move as part of the circulation process are known as cells.
Something in the Air: Storms
Often, a storm begins as the result of air masses that have collided. There remains a good deal of uncertainty as to why some storms are stronger than others.
Something in the Air: Monsoons
Monsoons are seasonal patterns of wind circulation associated with large amounts of summer rainfall and thus favorable conditions for agriculture. Monsoon climates exist in Africa, Asia, Northern Australia and, to some extent, the Americas. About si...
Something in the Air: Weather Forecasting
In large part due to computer modeling and data from satellites, meteorologists are making significant progress in their efforts to increase both the accuracy and the utility of their forecasts.
Deep Connections: Water Masses
Water masses are layers of water distinguished by a particular temperature and salinity. Understanding how water masses form and move around is critical in understanding global climate.