Hobbies And Interests
Thermometer
A thermometer is a commonly recognized and understood weather instrument, which measures air temperature in degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius. Temperature is not the only influence on how warm or cool it seems outside; other factors affect how it feels.
Barometer
Scientists use a barometer to measure atmospheric pressure. It resembles a thermometer in appearance. The rise or fall of pressure is indicative of changing weather conditions. An increase in pressure is a sign of a dry and sunny sky, whereas a decrease in pressure serves as a storm warning.
Rain Gauge
A rain gauge measures precipitation in any form over a given period of time. It resembles a graduated cylinder, with an open top for collection. The gauge must be placed upright in an area that will receive the maximum amount of rain, far from buildings or monuments.
Anemometer
An anemometer measures wind speed. It looks like a windmill, and operates the same way. As the wind blows, the mechanism spins. As the wind increases, it spins faster. A similar instrument called a wind vane is sometimes coupled with an anemometer because it indicates the direction from which the wind is blowing.
Hygrometer
A hygrometer is a bulb that measures the humidity of the air, or its water content. A homemade psychrometer can also measure humidity, but it is likely less accurate. A psychrometer consists of a thermometer wrapped in wet cloth that you compare with a non-wrapped thermometer to measure temperature change as the water evaporates.
Maps and Satellites
Meteorologists require more advanced technology to more accurately predict weather patterns. Satellite images track the movement of large changes in the air. They make maps using these images to predict weather all over the world, rather than simply the current state of the weather in the backyard.