GEOG 210 - Introduction to Weather

Credits: 5
LEC hours per week: 4
LAB hours per week: 2
Examines the nature of the atmosphere including: the study of weather elements, weather systems, climate, and the impact weather has on humans and vice versa. Provides an introduction to meteorology and the tools involved in the study of weather and climate. Lab work required.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 046 with a P or appropriate placement; ENGL 087 or AENG 100 with a grade of C or higher or appropriate placement; or permission of the Science Division Chair or designee.
Recommended: READ 088 or higher; word processing and spreadsheet skills.
Course Outcomes:

Analyze and interpret a weather map
Identify the gases of the atmosphere, their relative concentrations, and the significant characteristics of those gases
Specify the average attributes of temperature and pressure in the vertical dimension
Decode the standard components of a METAR
Distinguish between various forms of energy and energy transfer processes
Demonstrate an understanding of the occurrence of the seasons
Differentiate between the mechanisms that bring about temperature patterns
Determine various representations of humidity in the atmosphere (e.g., vapor pressure, mixing ratio, dew point, relative humidity, etc.)
Discriminate between the different types of fog and how they form
Recognize various cloud types and formation processes
Given an environmental lapse rate, determine the stability of the atmosphere
Distinguish between different forms of precipitation and how they develop
Demonstrate an understanding of how winds are generated in the atmosphere
Recognize wind circulation patterns on a variety of scales
Differentiate between the various air mass types and how they are formed
Characterize different types of surface fronts
Demonstrate an understanding of the characteristics of mid-latitude cyclones
Identify the attributes and behaviors of thunderstorms
Identify the attributes and behaviors of tropical cyclones

Course Topics:

Weather Data and Maps
Weather Forecasting
The Atmosphere
Atmosphere Circulation and Heat
Air Pressure
Humidity, Clouds, and Precipitation
Frontal Systems and Extra-tropical Cyclones
Thunderstorms & Tornadoes
Tropical Weather Systems

Course Attribute(s): Natural Science