University of Central Florida (UCF) PHY1038 Physics of Energy, Climate Change and Environment Practice Exam 2

Weather and climate represent two fundamental concepts in atmospheric science, each with distinct characteristics.

The differentiation lies primarily in the time scale of the measurements. Weather refers to the short-term atmospheric conditions in a specific place at a specific time. It includes phenomena such as temperature, humidity, precipitation, and wind patterns that can change from hour to hour or day to day. In contrast, climate describes the long-term average of these weather conditions over an extended period, typically around 30 years or more. It encompasses the typical patterns of weather an area experiences and reflects broader trends and variations over time.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for grasping how we assess and predict environmental changes and their impacts. By distinguishing short-term weather events from long-term climate changes, we can better understand phenomena like seasonal weather patterns, climate change, and the variability of local climates around the globe.