Energy question on Weather/Atmospheric

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In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between precipitation and energy in a thunderstorm, and how the amount of rain is proportional to the amount of heat energy released. The given scenario involves a storm ingesting a certain amount of air and condensed water, and asks for the total number of Joules of energy generated.
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This may be too difficult for the introductory forum... so I moved this here (this is college-level material)

I can't quite figure this out... but given this sceneraio:
Precipitation and energy can be thought of as closely related quaniities in a thunderstorm. That is, when rain forms via condensation, the atmosphere warms from the latent heat released. The amount of heat energy must be proportional to the amount of rainfall produced. In this case, the mass of the water content in a given thunderstorm is 9.72 * 10^8 kg. If a storm ingests 2.16*10^9m^3 of air with 9.72*10^5m^3 as condensed water, and given that the latent heat of vaporization is 2.5*10^6J/kg, what is the total number of Joules of energy generated by this storm?
 
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Have you any thoughts or working?
 

FAQ: Energy question on Weather/Atmospheric

What is the relationship between energy and weather?

The sun is the primary source of energy for the Earth's weather. The sun's energy is absorbed by the Earth's surface, causing it to warm up. This warmth then creates changes in the atmosphere, such as changes in air pressure and wind patterns, which ultimately affects the weather.

How does energy impact the Earth's atmosphere?

Energy plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth's atmosphere. The sun's energy is responsible for heating up the Earth's surface, causing air to rise and creating atmospheric circulation. This circulation is what drives weather patterns, such as wind and storms. Additionally, energy from the sun is also responsible for powering the water cycle, which creates precipitation and influences temperature changes in the atmosphere.

How does energy affect the formation of clouds?

Clouds are formed when water vapor in the atmosphere cools and condenses into tiny water droplets or ice crystals. This cooling process is often caused by changes in energy, such as when warm air rises and cools as it reaches higher altitudes. As a result, energy influences the formation, type, and movement of clouds in the atmosphere.

Can changes in energy affect the Earth's climate?

Yes, changes in energy can have a significant impact on the Earth's climate. For example, variations in the amount of solar energy reaching the Earth's surface can cause shifts in global temperatures, leading to changes in weather patterns and precipitation levels. Additionally, human activities that release large amounts of energy, such as burning fossil fuels, can also contribute to climate change.

How do scientists measure energy in the Earth's weather and atmosphere?

Scientists use a variety of tools and instruments to measure energy in the Earth's weather and atmosphere. These include satellites, which can measure solar radiation and temperature changes, as well as weather balloons, which gather data on atmospheric conditions such as air pressure and humidity. Additionally, weather stations on the ground collect data on temperature, wind speed, and other factors that can help scientists understand how energy is impacting the Earth's weather and atmosphere.

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