ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates the atmospheric systems associated with simple, f lat, non-vegetated surfaces (bare soil, desert, snow, ice and water). In each case we initially evaluate any special properties of the surface (or system volume) not previously discussed. Then we examine the cycling of energy and water typically encountered (i.e. depending upon the particular mix of radiative, thermal, moisture and aerodynamic properties of the system), and finally we discuss the characteristic climate which results.
