Lesson 5: Vertical Motion and Stability
Introduction

The vertical structure of the atmosphere important for flight and for weather. It determines vertical motions, cloud types and turbulence. It is therefore crucial that you understand how to interpret observations of the vertical structure of the atmosphere in terms of temperature, moisture, and winds. The book provides a good discussion on determining stability, though it does not use thermodynamic diagrams. This lesson will introduce you to a thermodynamic diagram called the Stuve diagram. We will also introduce you to the concepts of turbulence and its causes.

1. Understand the fundamental causes of turbulence.
2. Be introduced to a thermodynamic diagram.

A complete understanding of thermodynamic diagrams is difficult. Here we introduce these diagrams so you are familiar with them in your future. The important concept for now, is for you to be able identify temperature inversions (these can lead to freezing conditions) and strong winds and wind shear on these diagrams.

Learning Objectives
  1. Learn fundamentals of atmospheric stability, including determining atmospheric stability.
  2. Learn the basic mechanisms that lead to vertical motion.
  3. Know the basic causes of turbulence in the atmosphere, and how it is reported.
How to Proceed
  • Read Chapter 5 of the text.
  • Review the summary material under Lesson Content. This summarizes some of the most important concepts of these chapters.
  • Do the Learning Activities to prepare you for this weeks quiz.
Time Requirement

The reading should take about one hour.