Knowra Atmospheric physics Atmospheric physics Atmospheric physics studies the motions, energy exchanges, radiation, clouds, and electrical processes of planetary atmospheres. It explains how these processes shape weather and climate.
Atmospheric circulation : Large-scale patterns of air movement that redistribute heat, moisture, and momentum through an atmosphere. Circulation connects local forces and heating to planetary-scale weather patterns.
Hydrostatic equilibrium : A balance in which pressure gradients support a fluid against gravity. It explains the vertical pressure structure of most atmospheres away from rapid disturbances.
Numerical weather prediction : Forecasting weather by numerically solving equations for atmospheric motion and state. Forecast models encode atmospheric physics to predict evolving weather systems.
Planetary science : The study of planets, moons, and planetary systems, including their formation and physical properties. Atmospheric physics compares the gaseous envelopes of Earth and other worlds.
Astrophysics : The study of the physical properties and processes of stars, galaxies, and other astronomical objects. Astrophysics focuses mainly beyond planetary atmospheres, though it can study their irradiation and escape.
Atmospheric thermodynamics : The study of heat, energy, pressure, and phase changes in atmospheric air. Thermodynamics explains how heating and cooling alter air density, stability, and motion.
Equation of state : A relation connecting a substance's pressure, temperature, density, and composition. It links atmospheric temperature and pressure changes to air density.
Climate modeling : The use of mathematical models to simulate climate and its responses to changing influences. Climate models represent atmospheric energy, moisture, and circulation over long periods.
Meteorology : The science of Earth's atmosphere, especially its weather and short-term processes. Meteorology applies atmospheric physics to Earth's weather and observations.
Aerodynamics : The study of air motion around objects and the forces it produces. Aerodynamics centers on flows around bodies, while atmospheric physics addresses whole planetary envelopes.
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