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Give an account of how atmosphere-ocean phenomena are measured and examine the importance of such measurements with reference to pressure, temperature, wind and humidity. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 24 - 2013
Question 24
Give an account of how atmosphere-ocean phenomena are measured and examine the importance of such measurements with reference to pressure, temperature, wind and humi... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Give an account of how atmosphere-ocean phenomena are measured and examine the importance of such measurements with reference to pressure, temperature, wind and humidity. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 24 - 2013
Step 1
How atmosphere-ocean phenomena are measured
Answer
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Pressure Measurement: Atmospheric pressure is measured using barometers, while oceanic pressure is gauged with pressure sensors. These instruments can provide data on pressure variations which indicate changes in weather patterns and ocean currents.
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Temperature Measurement: Temperature can be measured with thermometers in the atmosphere and thermocouples or CTD (Conductivity, Temperature, Depth) sensors in the ocean. This data is crucial for understanding thermal stratification and mixing in ocean waters, as well as atmospheric temperature trends.
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Wind Measurement: Anemometers are used to measure wind speed and direction at various altitudes in the atmosphere. In ocean studies, buoys equipped with anemometers can provide wind data over water surfaces. This information is essential for weather prediction and climate modeling.
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Humidity Measurement: Humidity is assessed using hygrometers in the atmosphere and by measuring water content in the upper ocean layers. Understanding humidity levels is vital for predicting precipitation and overall weather systems.
Step 2
Examine the importance of such measurements with reference to pressure, temperature, wind and humidity
Answer
The measurements of atmosphere-ocean phenomena are critical for several reasons:
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Importance of Pressure Measurements: Variations in atmospheric and oceanic pressure can indicate approaching weather systems and potential storms, aiding in disaster preparedness.
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Importance of Temperature Measurements: Understanding sea surface temperatures can help predict El Niño and La Niña events, which have global climatic impacts.
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Importance of Wind Measurements: Knowledge of wind patterns is essential for navigation, forecasting weather, and studying the impacts of climate change.
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Importance of Humidity Measurements: Monitoring humidity is crucial for understanding precipitation patterns, which directly impact agriculture and water resources.