Meteorology

How is Earth’s atmosphere layered, and why do most weather phenomena occur in the lowest layer? What roles do temperature, pressure and humidity play in creating different weather conditions? How do air masses and fronts help explain changes in weather over a few days? Why are some regions more prone to stable, predictable weather while others see rapid changes? What aspects of atmospheric science do you find most intuitive or most confusing?

How do thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes and blizzards each form, and what energy sources drive them? What factors determine whether a storm becomes a minor event or a major disaster for a community? How do early warning systems and communication strategies save lives during severe weather? How might climate change influence the frequency or intensity of extreme weather events? Have you ever experienced severe weather personally, and how did it shape your attitudes toward risk and preparedness?

What kinds of instruments and satellites collect the data used in weather forecasting? How do computer models translate current atmospheric conditions into short-term forecasts? Why do forecasts become less reliable the further they extend into the future? What are some common misconceptions the public has about how precise weather forecasts can be? How might improved forecasting benefit farmers, airlines, emergency services and everyday people?

What are the main pollutants that affect air quality, and where do they come from? How does air pollution interact with weather patterns to create smog or haze events? What short- and long-term health effects can poor air quality have on different populations? How can policy changes and personal choices improve air quality in urban and rural areas? How does learning about invisible pollutants change the way you think about the air you breathe each day?

How do seasonal cycles and local weather patterns shape agriculture, tourism and daily life in different regions? What kinds of cultural traditions and stories are tied to weather and seasonal changes around the world? How do media portrayals of storms and disasters influence public understanding of risk? What responsibilities do meteorologists and communicators have when explaining uncertain forecasts? If you were designing a public weather information service, what features would you prioritize for clarity and usefulness?