1. Tools of the trade:
How do we collect data? Over 50 years ago, the Dopplar radar system was developed. What is it- how does it help us with weather predictions? Want to know more about it? Check it out
Find out the conditions in your area by visiting the Meteorological Society of Canada site.
What other tools are used to collect and analyse atmospheric conditions?
2. Understanding your forecast
- http://www.msc.ec.gc.ca/cd/brochures/forecast_e.cfm#3
| 1. What does 'normal' temperature refer to? |
| 2. How precise is the "probability of precipitation" ? |
| 3. What is humidity? What is the humidex? What is the relative humidity if the moisture in the air is 14g/m3 and the air mass, at its given temperature is capable of holding 26g/m3 ? |
| 4. What is albedo? How does it affect temperature? |
| 5. What is wind-chill? Try calculating a few examples. |
3. Activity: "When someone says 'nice day'- tell them why!"
To review your understanding of the factors that determine our weather,
try writing a synopsis of current conditions in your local area by going
to
http://www.theweathernetwork.com.
You may be asked to complete this in pairs.
Click on Cities, Ontario and click on your city. Read through
the current conditions as well as those forecasted for the next three days.
Write a synopsis of your local weather conditions for the next three
days with an explanation for the forecast, according to the different climate
factors that affect it.
Click on Maps and observe the Systems and Weather Today/Tomorrow
maps, as well as Pressure Today and Satellite Images to help
your explanation.
Submit your synopsis, no longer than one page, to your teacher. Be
prepared to defend your explanation!
You will notice that the weather network site has a lot of interesting
links, such as Air Quality, Bug Report, and UV report.
Check them out! It may provide some interesting comparisons for the discussion
groups.