Most of us generally fail to comprehend the enormous scale, power, and complexity of the atmosphere. With the effects of global climate change becoming increasingly apparent, an understanding of the processes that underpin our weather and climate is vital.

Offering an engaging and insightful treatment of the behavior of the lower atmosphere, Fundamentals of Weather and Climate takes a quantitative approach to describing the mechanisms involved. Beginning with an overview of the atmosphere and its components, it introduces the physics that drive weather systems before setting those principles in the context of specific systems of differing scales and latitudes. Finally, the text draws this information together in relation to the problem of anthropogenic climate change.

Fundamentals of Weather and Climate is enhanced by extensive pedagogical features including end-of-chapter questions, key points, and custom-drawn illustrations that enable students to more easily visualize the processes and interactions described. A Companion Website offers resources for students and instructors.

Previous publication dates

November 1991