Understanding the Weather

Overview

Weather is the condition of the atmosphere at a particular place and time. It can change quickly from sunny to rainy or hot to cold. By studying the elements of weather, we can understand and even predict what the sky will do next. Weather affects our clothes, food, farming and daily plans.

Key points

• The main elements of weather are temperature, humidity, air pressure, wind and rainfall.
• Temperature is measured with a thermometer; rainfall with a rain gauge.
• Humidity is the amount of water vapour in the air.
• The water cycle (evaporation, condensation, precipitation) causes clouds and rain.
• Weather forecasting uses instruments and satellites to predict weather.

Important terms / dates

• Weather - day-to-day condition of the atmosphere.
• Atmosphere - the blanket of air around the Earth.
• Condensation - water vapour turning into water droplets.
• Precipitation - water falling as rain, snow or hail.

Important questions

1. What is weather? How is it different from climate?
2. Name the main elements of weather.
3. Explain the water cycle in short.
4. Why is weather forecasting useful for farmers?

Quick revision

Weather is the short-term state of the atmosphere, made up of temperature, humidity, pressure, wind and rainfall. The water cycle drives rain and clouds, and forecasting helps people prepare for changing weather conditions.