Meteorology

Meteorology, study of the atmosphere and its phenomena, weather, and climate. Based on atmospheric physics, meteorology is mainly applied in weather forecasting and control. The rain gauge and wind vane were known in ancient times. The other basic instruments—anemometer, barometer, hygrometer, and thermometer—were invented by 1790; however, simultaneous observations over a wide area were impracticable until the development of the telegraph. Since World War I, observations of the upper atmosphere have been made using airplanes, balloons, and radiosonde, and since World War II, using radar, rockets, and artificial satellites. Observed phenomena include clouds, precipitation and humidity, wind and air pressure, air temperature, storms, cyclones, air masses, and fronts.

See also: Atmosphere.