Wind, one of the main components of weather, is the topic of Week 8. The various instruments for measuring wind speed and direction
are first described. Then, the primary forces responsible for producing and modifying the wind are introduced. The interaction among
these forces is next discussed, with emphasis on how the resulting net force produces the winds that we observe. Finally, the coupling
of vertical and horizontal winds due to continuity of the atmosphere is described. Lab Assignments explore the Coriolis and pressure
gradient forces as they relate to surface weather systems (Lab 8A) and the interpretation and use of upper air weather maps (Lab 8B).
Reading Assignment
Read Chapter 8, "Wind and Weather", in the Weather Studies text.
Investigation 8A - Surface Weather Maps and Forces
Directions for completing Investigation 8A:
1. Go to Investigation 8A in the Weather Studies Investigations Manual. Answer questions 1-17, using the "school supplies" as necessary (the manual tells you exactly what you will need). You are asked to draw an arrow on Figure 1; however, you do not need to submit this image. As always, do not do the Applications questions (items 18-30).
2. There are no Current Weather Studies items for Lab 8A.
3. Submit the short answers electronically using the Investigation 8A answer form. Save it and then edit to indicate the correct answers, preferably by deleting the incorrect responses. Note that the form contains the Applications questions 18-30, which you don't need to do. Upload the completed form to the Lab 8 link in Canvas.
4. Deadline for Investigation 8A is 11:59 P.M. Wednesday, April 22.
5. Material due for Lab 8A: Investigations Manual questions 1-17
No images required
Investigation 8B - Upper-Air Weather Maps
Directions for completing Investigation 8B:
1. Go to Investigation 8B in the Weather Studies Investigations Manual. Answer questions 1-11. Do not do the Applications questions 12-28.
2. Go to the AMS website portal and click on the Archives link, found near the top left of the main page. Click "Spring 2020 " on the next page, then on the following page select Chapter 8. Open the Current Weather Studies 8 PDF, and either save it or print it out. Do items 1-19.
3. There are no required figures to submit for this assignment. Submit the short answers electronically as before, using the Investigation 8B and Current Weather Studies 8 answer forms.
4. Deadline for Investigation 8B is the same as for Investigation 8A.
5. Material due for Lab 8B: Investigations Manual questions 1-11
Current Weather Studies questions 1-19
No images required
Last updated on April 13, 2020