The atmosphere : an introduction to meteorology / Frederick K. Lutgens, Edward J. Tarbuck ; illustrated by Dennis Tasa.

Includes index.

Introduction to the atmosphere -- Heating earth's surface and atmosphere -- Temperature -- Moisture and atmospheric stability -- Forms of condensation and precipitation -- Air pressure and winds -- Circulation of the atmosphere -- Air masses -- Weather patterns -- Thunderstorms and tornadoes -- Hurricanes -- Weather analysis and forecasting -- Air pollution -- The changing climate -- World climates -- Optical phenomena of the atmosphere.

The Atmosphere: An Introduction to Meteorology, Thirteenth Edition, is designed to meet the needs of students who enroll in such a course. It is our hope that the knowledge gained by taking a class and using this book will encourage many to actively participate in bettering the environment, and others may be sufficiently stimulated to continue their study of meteorology. Equally important, however, is our belief that a basic understanding of the atmosphere and its processes will greatly enhance appreciation of our planet and thereby enrich the reader's life"-- Provided by publisher.