Weather instruments measure variables used to predict weather patterns.
Meteorology, the study of weather patterns, depends on precise technical readings from a variety of instruments. Identifying values and changes in a variety of weather variables allows scientists to predict future weather patterns. Weather instruments measure wind speed, temperature, humidity, rain volume and other metrics of interest to amateur and professional meteorologists.
Barometer
Barometers measure atmospheric pressure. Barometers are usually cylinders partially filled with water or mercury. The level of liquid rises or falls with changes in atmospheric pressure. Other barometers consist of a special type of capsule called an aneroid cell. Changes in atmospheric pressure cause the expansion or contraction of the aneroid cell and move a measurement needle accordingly.
Thermometer
Weather people use thermometers to measure the outdoor temperature. Accurate outdoor thermometers are relatively inexpensive and allow you to keep track of patterns of heat or coolness. While most modern thermometers are digital, some utilize the expansion or contraction of mercury to provide temperature readings.
Wind Instruments
Many types of weather instruments measure wind patterns. The most simple are weather vanes, which rotate to show the compass direction of the wind. Wind socks are elongated cloth tubes that show wind direction and relative strength, though they lack precision.
More advanced wind equipment includes the anemometer, which measures wind speed and pressure. While early anemometers used spinning cups, most modern instruments use lasers or sonar technology to measure the wind. Weather professionals also use wind profilers, which are technologically advanced instruments that utilize the properties of sound waves to detect wind speed and direction. Wind profilers can measure wind at various altitudes, making them valuable weather instruments.
Gauges
Gauges measure the amount of precipitation that fell in a particular region. Rain gauges and snow gauges are common weather instruments used by both amateurs and professionals. Some rain gauges are simple cylinders with measurement markings. Others use electronics and measure the mass of rain or snow as it falls.
Weather Balloons
Meteorologists use weather balloons in conjunction with other weather instruments to take measurements at different altitudes. Balloons carry thermometers, barometers, altimeters and other instruments and electronically relay information back to a weather center. Meteorologists and weather research centers routinely use weather balloons to collect information.
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