A solar eclipse provides a well-characterized reduction in solar radiation. Solar radiation is a driving factor in meteorological and climate models. Hence, solar eclipses provide a unique opportunity to do large-scale meteorological experiments by measuring the effects on temperature, pressure, and wind while the atmospheric conditions stay…

Thundercloud charge separation, or the process by which the bottom portion of a cloud gathers charge and the top portion of the cloud gathers the opposite charge, is still not thoroughly understood. Whatever the mechanism, though, a charge separation definitely exists and can lead to electrostatic discharge via cloud-to-cloud lightning and…

The non-SI unit sverdrup, named to honor Norwegian oceanographer and meteorologist Harald Ulrik Sverdrup (1888-1957), is adopted for quantifying large-scale volume transport by oceanographers, meteorologists, and atmospheric physicists. The sverdrup is used to appraise the volumetric rate of evaporation, precipitation, runoff, transport of ocean…

The changing altitude of the Sun (either over the course of a day or longer periods) is a phenomenon that students do not normally appreciate. However, the altitude of the Sun affects many topics in disciplines as diverse as astronomy, meteorology, navigation, or horology, such as the basis for seasons, determination of latitude and longitude, or…

Describes how the study of a hurricane can be used to provide integrated basic mechanics in a first-year college course in engineering mechanics. Presents models that predict wind speed given surface eye pressure and several radial dimensions of the storm and calculate total kinetic energy once the wind speed is determined. (ZWH)

Describes the theory and operational procedure of seeding clouds with 10 cm. long fiberglass fibers in order to suppress lightning. Histograms show results of experimental work. (CP)

Explores the theory behind the correlation between warm rain, rapid snowmelt, and the subsequent runoff using the concepts of enthalpy, thermal transfer, and energy transfer. Concludes that rapid runoff is not a consequence of rain per se but of the high humidities associated with the rain. (JRH)

Correspondence of Benjamin Franklin provides authenticity to a historical account of early work in the field of lightning. Present-day theories concerning the formation and propagation of lightning are expressed and photographic evidence provided. (CP)

The circular motion observed when water drains into a smooth opening is analyzed. This action, as well as cycloidal atmospheric motion, is explained as the result of rotation of the coordinate system. (CP)

This activity makes a barometer out of 50 feet of clear vinyl tubing and a gallon of tea. The barometer is used in a building stairwell where students have easy access to the tube. Discusses possible pitfalls, vapor pressure, elevation, and weather influences. (MVL)

Describes a research project undertaken by physics undergraduate students to monitor particulate air contamination in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and to determine the meteorological factors which contribute to it. (GA)

Discusses one of the newest methods used to probe the upper atmosphere using naturally generated infrasound from ocean waves. (GA)

Describes the apparatus and procedures for conducting an experiment to measure the relative brightness and degree of polarization of the sky. (SL)