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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. 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
The reading should take about one hour. |