A Thoroughly Updated New Edition of an Essential Text in an Ever-evolving Field

Ideal for the upper-level undergraduate or introductory-level graduate course on climatology, the thoroughly updated third edition provides students with a comprehensive foundation of the climatic system. It begins with an overview of climatology basics, including a discussion on climatology versus meteorology and an introduction to the atmosphere. Also included in these introductory chapters is a discussion on air/sea interactions to assist readers in understanding this critical aspect of the earth/atmosphere system. Using a regional approach, discussions progress to more advanced concepts, such as microscale processes; climatic water balance; global atmospheric circulation; climatic classification; the spatial variability of climates; and much more. Presenting evidence-based contemporary information and data, Climatology, Third Edition encourages readers to think critically about the climate system while developing a sense of social responsibility.

The comprehensive Third Edition provides up-to-date data through graphs and maps, and introduces new key terms that have crept into the science and public discourse. With additional quantitative and paleoclimatology material, Climatology, Third Edition thoroughly explores the processes that make the climate the way it is today, making it an essential resource for students delving into this ever-evolving field.