Clouds in a lab
In this video Pete demonstrates how changes in pressure result in cloud formation, using a demijohn bottle, a bicycle pump and ethanol. Pete pumps air into the sealed jar, increasing …
Course: Come Rain or Shine: Understanding the Weather
Clouds and rain
The animation above, provided by the Met Office, shows a progression of waves on the polar front (where the yellow/green tropical air meets the blue polar air) over the course …
Teabag rocket
Many weather systems, including land and sea breeze and hurricanes, are the result of hot air rising. To illustrate, Sylvia shows you a simple practical demonstration using a teabag, matches …
Introduction to depressions
Mid-latitude depressions, extra-tropical storms, cyclones (at mid-latitudes) or low pressure systems are all different names for the same thing. They all refer to the storms which bring the UK most …
Getting Started….
In this Step we’ve provided some basic pointers to help you get to grips with some of the terminology and concepts you will be encountering throughout the course. Some of …
The difference between weather and climate
The difference between weather and climate is neatly summed up in the saying “the climate is what you expect; the weather is what you get”, frequently attributed to Mark Twain. …
What next?
Congratulations on completing Week 3! We hope you’ve enjoyed the course and we’ve encouraged you to continue to learn more about the weather. Want to study further? Are you considering …
An invitation to extend your learning
Congratulations on completing Week 1! Are you considering applying to study meteorology or climate science at university? The University of Reading offers a BSc in Meteorology and Climate. At Reading, …