This unique addition to reference literature provides an introduction to the major concepts and contemporary issues that are essential for students of environmental science and environmental studies to know. With over 200 entries authored by world-class names like Anthony Brazel, John Day and Edward Keller, this text is divided into six sections: Environmental Science, Environments, Paradigms & Concepts, Processes & Dynamics, Scales & Techniques, and Environmental Issues.
Atmospheric sciences study the atmosphere, its processes, the effects from other systems, and the effects of the atmosphere on these other systems. Meteorology includes atmospheric chemistry and atmospheric physics with a major focus on weather forecasting. Climatology is the spatio-temporal study of atmospheric changes (both long- and short-term) that define average climates, their variability and drivers, and their change over time, which include natural climate and anthropogenic climate processes. Meteorologists study the atmosphere's physical characteristics, motions, and processes, and how these factors affect the environment, with a strong focus on forecasting of the weather. In addition to predicting the weather, atmospheric scientists attempt to identify and interpret climate trends, understand past weather, and engage in scenarios of future changes. Weather information and ...