TEST OF PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE QUESTION (a) State two differences between weather and climate. (b) Name the instruments used in measuring the following weather...

TEST OF PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE QUESTION

(a) State two differences between weather and climate.
(b) Name the instruments used in measuring the following weather elements: (i) sunshine (ii) rainfall (iii) cloud cover.
(c) Explain how Wind speed is measured and recorded.

Answer Details

(a)

Two differences between weather and climate are:

1. Weather refers to the short-term atmospheric conditions in a specific area, whereas climate refers to the long-term average weather patterns in a region.
2. Weather can change rapidly and unpredictably, whereas climate changes occur over much longer periods of time and are more predictable.

(b)

The instruments used in measuring the following weather elements are:

1. Sunshine: Sunshine recorder
2. Rainfall: Rain gauge
3. Cloud cover: Ceilometer

(c)

Wind speed is measured and recorded using an instrument called an anemometer. An anemometer typically consists of two or three cups mounted on a vertical axis that spin around as the wind blows. The speed of the cups rotating is directly proportional to the speed of the wind. An electronic sensor attached to the anemometer converts the rotational speed into an electrical signal, which can then be recorded and displayed on a meter or computer. Wind speed is usually measured in units of meters per second (m/s) or miles per hour (mph).