Define climate and compare it with weather. What is climatology?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Climate refers to long-term weather patterns, while weather is the short-term atmospheric conditions in a region. Climatology, on the other hand, is the scientific study of climate and its variations.

Step by step solution

01

Define Climate

Climate refers to the average weather conditions in a region over a long period, typically 30 years or more. It involves a comprehensive study of various weather parameters like temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind speed, and direction over extended periods.
02

Define Weather

Weather, on the other hand, refers to the state of the atmosphere in a specific place over a short period (hours, days). It encompasses phenomena like rain, snow, cloudiness, wind, and temperature that can change from minute to minute, day to day.
03

Comparing Climate and Weather

The main difference between climate and weather lies in the term duration. Climate refers to weather conditions over a long term, while weather represents temporary conditions of the atmosphere. When you talk about climate, it’s what you can expect (long-term), but weather is what you get (short-term).
04

Defining Climatology

Climatology is the scientific study of climate, its variations, and impacts on the natural world and civilization. This involves comprehending the characteristics and phenomena of the atmosphere over years, decades, and centuries.

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