Chapter 31, Problem 20RQ

To determine

The information needed to predict the weather.

Answer to Problem 20RQ

The information needed to predict the weather includes the current state of the atmosphere like wind speed, wind direction, pressure, temperature, humidity, and precipitation. These parameters are the inputs to the predefined computer-simulated model that produce the output and provide the basis of the weather forecast.

Explanation of Solution

The weather forecasting is based on various data and closeness of the information collected from the observation of the atmosphere. The current state of the atmosphere, that is, the temperature, humidity, and air drag, is measured using instruments like a barometer, hygrometer, and many more. The data collected from the current state of the atmosphere is used in conjunction with the predefined model. These predefined models are computer simulations of the atmosphere whose accuracy is better than the other traditional methods used in predicting the weather.

The understanding of atmospheric processes, understanding of physics, and fluid dynamics are necessary for governing the complicated equation in the models. The data like the pressure, temperature, wind direction, wind speed, humidity, precipitation are collected by the experienced and trained observers that serve as the input to these models. These computer-simulated models provide the output that serves as the basis of the weather forecast.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the information needed to predict the weather includes the current state of the atmosphere like wind speed, wind direction, pressure, temperature, humidity, and precipitation. These parameters are the inputs to the predefined computer-simulated model that produce the output and provide the basis of the weather forecast.