Weather Whys; Meteorology Divisions

This is weather wise. The best known function of a meteorologist is weather forecasting, but that's not all the science entails. In fact, besides forecasting, there are several other major divisions within the field of meteorology. The focus and work within each of those divisions can be quite different. One of the better known subcategories is synoptic meteorology. The title itself may not be too familiar, but synopticians perform the well-known tasks of analyzing current weather conditions and preparing forecasts. They may also be involved with research on specific aspects of the daily weather. As an example, they may help those specializing in numerical modeling and simulation to develop algorithms that can assist with forecasting decisions. Dynamic meteorologists examine the atmosphere from a much more mathematic viewpoint. They use the principles of fluid dynamics to gain a better understanding of how air moves about.

Dynamisists also work with numerical forecasting models that run on large, fast computers. Physical meteorologists concentrate on the physical phenomena in the atmosphere. Their interests include rainbows, lightning, cloud and precipitation physics and radiation. Climateologists and climate dynamics study the overall trends and patterns of weather in the past and how they relate to the kind of climate that may develop in the future. It was the climate dynamicsists who first sounded the alarm that we ought to be concerned about the possibility of global warming. Finally, applied, consulting or forensic meteorologists may provide specialized forecasts for various industries or may testify in court cases where weather might have been involved. Sometimes one individual has talents and training that span a number of specialties, making his or her life very interesting. Weatherwise is made possible by a grant from the National Science Foundation. But weatherwise, I'm Drew Barlow.