Looking at the Mysteries of Weather Through History
Throughout the centuries, mankind has used many methods to predict and understand the different types of weather phenomenon. From the measurement of traditional weather instruments such as the thermometer and barometer, to the use of computer models such as those used to predict extreme weather events, the history of weather phenomena is full of high and low points. In this article, we will take a look at some of the mysteries of weather through history and explore how mankind has been attempting to unravel them.
Ancient Weather Wonders
The earliest attempts at predicting and understanding the science of weather phenomena were made by the ancient Greeks, Chinese, Egyptians, and Mesopotamians. By studying the sky and the stars, they tried to extrapolate yearly climatic cycles and divine what would be the best seasons for agricultural activities. This relied on the sole use of observation, and the interpretation of these observations.
In addition to the sky and the stars, ancient cultures also used instruments such as sundials and water clocks to track the days and seasons. Ancient instruments often relied on the use of ladders and plumb lines to study the horizon and record changes in the weather over time.
The Evolution of Mathematics
As mathematics developed, ancient Greeks and Romans began to mathematicize their observations of the sky, trying to break down the complexities of atmospheric phenomena into formulas that could explain why certain types of weather events occurred. This application of mathematics made it possible to observe and predict the weather more accurately and, in some cases, forecast extreme events like storms and tornadoes.
This scientific approach to understanding weather phenomena set the stage for later advances. In the 18th century, the Swiss mathematician Basile Bortone attempted to describe air pressure using mathematical equations. This was the first attempt to do so, and it encouraged the development of whole new theories regarding the dynamics of the atmosphere.
Instrumenting the Atmosphere
As the development of mathematics progressed, practical instruments to measure elements of the atmosphere also developed. In 1714, the Italian physicist and meteorologist Evangelista Torricelli invented the barometer, a tool used to measure the atmospheric pressure. This instrument, along with other inventions such as the hygrometer (invented in 1783) and the thermometer (invented in 1708), enabled more accurate measurements of temperature, humidity, and air pressure, and made it possible to develop a fuller understanding of how weather develops.
The Birth of Meteorology
By the 1800s, the science of meteorology was born. In 1802, British meteorologist Luke Howard developed the main categories of cloud types that are still used today, and in 1854, British chemist Robert Fitzroy created the first Weather Map. By this time, the development of mathematics and instrumental technology had enabled scientists to observe, discover, and quantify many of the mysteries of weather phenomenon and, in some cases, have predictive capabilities.
The Computer Age
The late 20th century marked a period of remarkable advancements in both computer technology and weather research. In the 1950s, meteorologists developed the first primitive computer models to forecast weather, and in the 1960s, the United States created the world's first nationwide network of weather stations. During this time, scientists also developed the basis for satellite atmospheric sensing, which enabled the earliest glimpses into the structure of the atmosphere.
By the 1990s, computers had become powerful enough to run sophisticated weather models, and, with the aid of satellites, meteorologists were able to obtain detailed global weather data. This, in turn, improved the accuracy of the models, allowing scientists to forecast the local weather with much more confidence. It also enabled further discoveries of the underlying physical processes of the atmosphere, giving new insights into the mysteries of weather phenomenon.
Modern Weather Forecasts
Today, weather forecasts involve the use of a combination of mathematical models, satellite data, human observations, and a variety of traditional and modern instruments. This combined effort creates a powerful tool for meteorologists to provide accurate forecasts for both short-term and long-term weather events.
Computer models are now so advanced that they are able to create extremely detailed forecasts, down to the street level. This makes it possible for people to make decisions about their day-to-day activities, such as whether or not to take an umbrella when they go out in the morning.
Unanswered Questions
Though much has been discovered about the physical processes of the atmosphere, there are still a vast number of unanswered questions. How do clouds form? What governs the onset of extreme weather events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods? What are the long-term effects of climate change on weather patterns?
Scientists are constantly pushing the boundaries of understanding and developing new technologies that can help to answer these questions. From satellites that can measure the composition of the atmosphere, to instruments that can measure the interactions between clouds and the Earth's surface, the mysteries of weather phenomenon remain engaging tasks for meteorologists and scientists of all disciplines.
Conclusion
Weather forecasting is a fascinating field that has come a long way since the early days of observation and mathematics. From the invention of the barometer to the use of computer models, scientists have been able to observe, discover, and quantify many of the mysteries of weather phenomenon. While much remains unknown, scientists are constantly developing new technologies and expanding our understanding of the complexities of the atmosphere.