ABSTRACT
Thermodynamics is central to the atmospheric sciences, as the interface between radiation (or, more generally, energy flows) and dynamics. The inflow and outflow of radiation are geographically different, leading to the familiar latitudinal (and seasonal) temperature gradients. It is basically thermodynamics which converts this temperature gradient into pressure gradients, and these drive atmospheric circulation. Land/sea thermal differences (including ice/open water), as well as mountain ranges, modulate these flow patterns. This adds much of the complexity to our weather, and the challenge to forecasting.
