Flight Operations
- Review Aerodynamics & Airplane Systems
- 1.1Explain the four forces which act on an airplane in flight
- 1.2Explain the angle of attack- Commercial Pilot-Aerodynamics and Performance
- 1.3Explain the basics of Aerodynamics
- 1.4Explain drag
- 1.5Explain thrust, stability, and center of gravity
- 1.6Explain weight and balance
- 1.7Demonstrate knowledge of aircraft components
- Pressure, Temperature & Density
- Weather
- 3.1Identify and explain the structure of the earth’s layers of the atmosphere, and become knowledgeable of the history of the study of meteorology
- 3.2Describe atmospheric conditions using appropriate weather terminology
- 3.3Demonstrate an understanding of frontal systems
- 3.4Demonstrate an understanding of wind speed, temperature, pressure & dew point
- 3.5Employ meteorological terminology and coding procedures
- 3.6Identify air masses and monitor daily weather phenomena
- 3.7Demonstrate an understanding of synoptic weather structure
- Weather Forecasting
- Weather Hazards
- Weather Tools
- IFR
- IFR
- IFR Navigation
Weather
Understanding the Structure of the Earth’s Atmosphere and the History of Meteorology
Lowest layer of the atmosphere.
The Earth's atmosphere is a complex system that plays a crucial role in our planet's weather and climate. It is composed of several layers, each with its unique characteristics and functions.
Layers of the Earth's Atmosphere
The Earth's atmosphere is divided into five main layers:
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Troposphere: This is the layer closest to the Earth's surface, where all weather occurs. It extends up to about 8 kilometers at the poles and up to 17 kilometers at the equator.
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Stratosphere: Located above the troposphere, the stratosphere extends up to about 50 kilometers above the Earth's surface. This layer contains the ozone layer, which absorbs and scatters the solar ultraviolet radiation.
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Mesosphere: This layer extends from the stratosphere up to about 85 kilometers. Meteors burn up in this layer when they enter the Earth's atmosphere.
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Thermosphere: Extending up to about 600 kilometers above the Earth, the thermosphere is where the space shuttle orbits. The Northern and Southern Lights also occur in this layer.
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Exosphere: This is the outermost layer of the Earth's atmosphere. It extends from the thermosphere up to 10,000 kilometers.
The Role of the Atmosphere in Weather Formation
The Earth's atmosphere plays a crucial role in weather formation. It absorbs energy from the Sun, recycles water and other chemicals, and works with the electrical and magnetic fields to provide a moderate climate. The atmosphere also protects life on Earth from high-energy radiation and the frigid vacuum of space.
History of the Study of Meteorology
The study of meteorology dates back to ancient times. Early civilizations observed and recorded weather patterns, and used this knowledge for agricultural purposes.
The modern science of meteorology developed in the 19th century with the invention of the barometer and the understanding of the role of the atmosphere in weather patterns. Today, meteorology uses sophisticated technology, like satellites and supercomputers, to forecast weather and study the climate.
Understanding the structure of the Earth's atmosphere and the history of meteorology is crucial for predicting weather patterns and understanding climate change. This knowledge is not only important for meteorologists but also for anyone interested in understanding the world around them.