Weather changes constantly and in order to predict it, meteorologists must collect data using weather instruments. The data thus collected gives information on temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, wind speed, and direction, among other things. Just as importantly, these measurements allow meteorologists to develop models for predicting future weather conditions and natural events. In this article, we’ll explore the basic principles and operation of three principal weather instruments- barometers, thermometers, and hygrometers.
Barometers
A barometer is a device used to measure atmospheric pressure, which is the downward force exerted per unit of area by the weight of air above it. The first barometer was invented in the 17th century by Evangelista Torricelli. This instrument works by having a compartment filled with mercury at its base. When the atmosphere exerts pressure, it causes the mercury column inside the slender tube formation to rise or fall based on changes in atmospheric pressure. The height of the mercury column measured in “inches of mercury” has become the global standard measurement of atmospheric pressure. Barometric readings help to estimate weather situations that are favorable, stressful, or uncertain.
Thermometers
Thermometers are devices used to measure air and water temperature. The most commonly used thermometer in meteorology is the liquid analogue thermometer, which contains a fluid such as ethanol, which has the property of expanding and contracting based on temperature changes. The fluid is placed in a thin glass tube along with a calibrated scale that allows readings to be taken. Meteorologists usually prefer measuring temperature directly from the air rather than off surfaces like the ground, pavement, or concrete as it more accurately measures the atmospheric temperature close to humans, crops or other live beings.
Hygrometers
Hygrometers are instruments designed to measure atmospheric humidity, which is the amount of water vapor present in the air. The two most common types of hygrometers are psychrometers and capacitive sensors. Psychrometers work by combining a wet-bulb thermometer with a dry-bulb thermometer to compare the amount of moisture in the air. The difference between the temperatures read by the two thermometers can be used to calculate relative humidity. Capacitive sensors, on the other hand, use an electric charge to determine the relative humidity in the air.
There are also several other weather instruments that record and transmit data measuring fog, rain, wind direction and speed. These instruments help meteorologists make informed decisions about weather conditions, such as how severe a storm may become or whether it poses a danger to people or infrastructure.
Conclusion
Accurate measurement of atmospheric conditions is critical for weather forecasting and prediction. Through the use of various weather instruments like barometers, thermometers, and hygrometers, meteorologists collect data on temperature, atmospheric pressure, and humidity. Their readings help predict changes in atmospheric conditions, natural events like thunderstorms and droughts, and more.
Having a good understanding of these instruments allows for more accurate data collection and future weather predictions, helping individuals, communities, and businesses to better prepare for extreme weather events. By utilizing these tools and sharing this knowledge, everyone can make use of the best possible weather forecast, whatever their situation.