Lab Report 5B Weather Observations

博主： ZCTigerRoot
发布时间：2026 年 04 月 21 日
74 次浏览
暂无评论
16907字数
分类：资料

# 5B Weather Observations

## 1. Introduction

Observations of the weather make up an important component of atmospheric sciences and are used for forecasting, environmental monitoring, agricultural activities, as well as renewable energy production. Measurements of the basic atmospheric parameters including temperature, atmospheric pressure, humidity, wind speed and direction, and solar radiation play a crucial role in weather forecasting as well as gaining knowledge about various atmospheric processes (WMO, 2024). According to the World Meteorological Organization, observations made on land surface represent the main component of the global observing system and contribute substantially both to weather and climate researches (WMO, 2024). Modern meteorology integrates observations of the atmosphere with computer modeling using a technique called data assimilation. Data assimilation allows significantly improving the accuracy of the forecasts produced by weather models (NOAA, 2025).

The goal of Experiment 5B is to carry out weather observations with the use of various instruments installed at several locations within the campus area. Through comparisons between measurements performed in various spots with various equipment, the experiments assess the variability of data, reliability of measurements, and the impact of environment on the process. At the same time, the data obtained can be useful for weather stations installation.

---

## 2. Materials and Methods

### 2.1 Measuring Instruments

In this case, there was a variety of manual and automatic devices used for the measurement of various environmental factors such as pressure, temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, light intensity, soil moisture, and soil pH. Cloud cover and types were also determined visually. These devices are presented below.

#### 2.1.1 Compass

The method of using the compass Naturehike for determining the wind direction was employed. This device works according to the principle of the magnetic needle orientation in relation to the Earth’s magnetic field. While making measurements, the compass was kept in horizontal position, aligning it with the direction of wind. The azimuth angle relative to the north position was registered as a wind direction.

![Figure 1: The Naturehike orienteering compass](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e58e37c3164.png)

Figure 1: The Naturehike orienteering compass

### 2.1.2 Digital Anemometer

The wind speed was obtained by measuring it with a PM6252B Digital Anemometer. It is a device that uses the rotations of the blades to generate electronic impulses, which help measure the speed of the wind. This instrument was switched on before taking measurements. It was positioned about 1-1.5 meters above ground level.

![Figure 2: PM6252B Digital Anemometer](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e595141c54a.webp)

Figure 2: PM6252B Digital Anemometer

### 2.1.3 Psychrometer

Relative Humidity was determined with the aid of Elcometer 116A sling psychrometer that has dry and wet bulb thermometers. The wet-bulb is evaporated and cooled, and this results in reduction of temperature. This process depends on the degree of moisture present (WMO, 2024). The instrument was rotated in a horizontal position for about 30 seconds and temperatures compared.

![Figure 3: The Elcometer 116A Psychrometer](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e595a0b9177.jpg)

Figure 3: The Elcometer 116A Psychrometer

### 2.1.4 The Light Meter

Lux was used as the unit of illuminance measured with a hand-held lux meter. The luminance-sensitive probe was exposed to natural illumination from the ground level, and the value indicated on the meter was noted.

![Figure 4. The Light Meter. Source: Hao Xuanjie.](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e596b4b73c3.png)

Figure 4. The Light Meter. Source: Hao Xuanjie.

### **2.1.5 The Soil Detector**

The multipurpose soil tester was used to obtain readings for soil moisture content and pH. The instrument was placed in the soil to a depth of about 5 cm and its reading was noted.

![Figure 5. The Soil Detector. Source: Hao Xuanjie.](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e62f2706b32.png)

Figure 5. The Soil Detector. Source: Hao Xuanjie.

### 2.1.6 Barometer

Measurements of atmospheric pressure were performed using an analog barometer made by Mingle. After placing the instrument in a steady state, readings of the atmospheric pressure in hPa, obtained from the inner dial, were recorded.

![Figure 6. The Mingle Analog Barometer. Source: Hao Xuanjie.](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e62f21dbeb8.png)

Figure 6. The Mingle Analog Barometer. Source: Hao Xuanjie.

### 2.1.7 Portable Weather Station

Two sets of portable automatic weather stations were set up at selected locations. The instrument included a wind speed sensor, wind direction sensor, barometer, and wireless data transmitter. It was placed on level ground using a bubble level and kept away from any obstructions around it. The readings were taken from a remote display screen.

![Figure 7. The Portable Weather Station and its Remote Control. Source: Hao Xuanjie.](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e62f1a121e2.png)

Figure 7. The Portable Weather Station and its Remote Control. Source: Hao Xuanjie.

### 2.2 Observation Method

Measurements in the field were made at specific sites within the campus. Instruments used for the measurement were placed at a height of 1–1.5 m above the ground for consistency. As the readings fluctuate due to changes in the atmosphere, one reading was chosen at any given point.

All participants in the team used different equipment to ensure accuracy. Other environmental factors, such as the presence of any buildings, types of surfaces on the ground, and the types of vegetation surrounding the place, were also observed as these might affect the measurements.

---

## 3. Results

### 3.1 Observation Locations

Field measurements were carried out at two selected points on campus, as depicted in Figure 8 below. Points 1 and 2 were selected based on the difference in their respective environments and the extent to which they were exposed to surrounding buildings. Point 1 was set up in a clear location that was less obstructed by any buildings or vegetation, hence offering atmospheric measurements with less interference. On the other hand, point 2 was placed near surrounding buildings that could possibly affect its meteorological environment, especially in terms of wind flow and radiation.Measurements were conducted at a similar height of about 1-1.5 meters above ground level.

![Figure 8: The Observation Position Marked With Flag in Satellite Map](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e62f1b42ee3.png)

Figure 8: The Observation Position Marked With Flag in Satellite Map

### 3.2 Observational Data

The recorded meteorological data from both handheld instruments and portable weather stations are presented in Tables 1–3. These tables include measurements of atmospheric pressure, temperature, relative humidity, light intensity, wind speed, wind direction, and soil conditions. All values shown are direct observations collected during the field experiment and are presented without further processing or interpretation.

Table 1: Record from Hand-held Instruments at Spot 1

| Weather Parameter (Unit) | Reading         | Time  |
| ------------------------ | --------------- | ----- |
| Pressure (hPa)           | 1000            | 13:10 |
| Temperature (°C)        | 12.5            | 13:10 |
| Relative Humidity (%)    | 89 (Δ=1)       | 13:10 |
| Light Level (Lux)        | 9300            | 13:10 |
| Wind Speed (m/s)         | 0.06            | 13:10 |
| Wind Direction           | 300 west→north | 13:10 |
| pH - optional            | 7               | 13:10 |
| Soil Moisture - optional | 4               | 13:10 |
| Cloud fraction           | 100%            | 13:10 |
| Cloud type               | medium          | 13:10 |

Table 2: Record from Weather Station Instruments in Spot 1

| Weather Parameter (Unit) | Reading | Time  |
| ------------------------ | ------- | ----- |
| Pressure (hPa)           | 993.9   | 13:20 |
| Temperature (°C)        | 11.6    | 13:20 |
| Relative Humidity (%)    | 90      | 13:20 |
| Wind Speed (m/s)         | 0       | 13:20 |
| Wind Direction           | East    | 13:20 |

Table 3: Record from Weather Station and hand hold Instruments in Pos 2

| Weather Parameter (Unit) | Reading         | Time  |
| ------------------------ | --------------- | ----- |
| Pressure (hPa)           | 990             | 13:32 |
| Temperature (°C)        | 13              | 13:32 |
| Relative Humidity (%)    | 79 (Δ=2)       | 13:32 |
| Light Level (Lux)        | 10150           | 13:32 |
| Wind Speed (m/s)         | 0.26            | 13:32 |
| Wind Direction           | 120 south→east | 13:32 |
| pH - optional            | 7-8             | 13:32 |
| Soil Moisture - optional | 4-5             | 13:32 |
| Cloud fraction           | 100%            | 13:32 |
| Cloud type               | low             | 13:32 |

---

## 4. Discussion

### 4.1 The Overview of Weather Observation

From the above measurements, it is clear that the weather on the day of the observation was humid, cloudy, and had relatively low atmospheric pressure. The measurements at Spot 1 show that the hand-held devices registered a pressure of 1000 hPa, temperature of 12.5 °C, relative humidity of 89%, and light of 9300 Lux at 13:10, while the portable weather station measured 993.9 hPa, 11.6 °C, and 90% relative humidity at 13:20. At Spot 2, the atmospheric pressure had dropped to 990 hPa, the temperature had slightly increased to 13 °C, relative humidity was 79%, and light was 10150 Lux at 13:32. At both positions, the cloud fraction was 100%.

The readings are indicative of an unstable weather pattern. The relatively low pressure, coupled with total cloud cover and high relative humidity, indicate that the campus area experienced unstable weather conditions (NOAA, 2024). The relatively weak intensity of sunlight could have been caused by thick clouds, which acted as a shield against the penetration of rays into the ground (Met Office, n.d.).

The wind parameters in this experiment were very low. Specifically, the wind speeds were only between 0 and 0.26 m/s, while there were significant differences in wind direction observed between the handheld devices and the weather station itself. This means that surface air flow was more affected by the local presence of buildings and ground friction than by prevailing winds in the area (WMO, 2024; NCEI, n.d.). Consequently, this can be taken to mean that this particular observation is a reflection of the campus's microclimate rather than wind parameters in the larger surrounding areas (WMO, 2024).

### 4.2 Weakness Analysis

Limitations in the study included: firstly, the subjective element involved in some variables; for instance, in measuring cloud type and handheld wind direction, the readings may differ from person to person based on experience. Secondly, the fact that there was only one time or very short time of measurement. In other words, the recorded value is an instantaneous figure rather than an average value. For instance, with regards to the wind speed and wind direction, there is high likelihood of variations. In the instruction manual provided during the practical, it was stated that rapid change was a feature of this experiment, and students could just take one reading.

Another problem in the experiment was the use of only one spot to measure the soil pH and soil moisture in every point where such parameters were recorded. There might have been differences in values recorded since soil properties differ in very short distance owing to shading and vegetation (NCEI, n.d.).

### 4.3 The Implemental Suggest of Weather Station

The preferred position for the campus weather station should be an open space within the campus that experiences least disturbance from nearby building, trees, and artificial structure, like that indicated in figure 9 (NCEI, n.d.; WMO, 2024). It would have been a better position for meteorological measurements because the location is closer to nature and not hindered by the surrounding obstruction. Thus, readings obtained from this place will reflect the real weather on campus.

![Figure 9: Recommended location for the campus weather station](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e6c3d1958a2.png)

Figure 9: Recommended location for the campus weather station

Moreover, an open site could enhance the accuracy of wind measurement readings as it is quite easy for wind speed and direction to get altered by shelter and any kind of obstruction on the ground surface (WMO, 2024). In addition, artificial heat absorption and shading effects will be least on the proposed position, thereby making it the most appropriate location for installing a campus weather station (Met Office, n.d.).

### 4.4 Renewable Energy Suggestion

For renewable energy, solar power appears more suitable than wind power on campus. Solar panels mainly require open terrain and low shading, which can be achieved in broad open areas such as the labour practice field (U.S. Department of Energy, n.d.-a). By contrast, the extremely low wind speeds recorded in this experiment do not support wind power as a practical short-term option. In addition, variable wind direction indicates disturbed airflow near the ground. Therefore, solar panel installation is more feasible, while wind power would require longer-term monitoring at greater height before any reliable engineering decision could be made (U.S. Department of Energy, n.d.-b).

---

## 5. Conclusion

In this experiment, the observation of weather was conducted in two areas on campus grounds by employing handheld equipment and a mobile weather station. From the findings, it was clear that the weather during the experimental period had been characterized by clouds, humidity, and low air pressure. Light intensity had been average due to the presence of cloud cover, whereas wind speed had been minimal, and wind direction had been variable, suggesting heavy dependence on the environment.

From the comparative analysis of the two sites and the difference in equipment used in each of the experiments, it was clear that there are certain meteorological variables whose values remain constant while others vary significantly. In particular, wind measurements were found to be highly variable and changeable over time. This underscores not only the complexities of conducting weather observations outside but also the need to expose and measure them correctly.

Finally, from this experiment, it is evident that the best place for installing a weather station on campus would be an open area without any obstruction (NCEI, n.d.; WMO, 2024). Moreover, when it comes to renewable energy technologies on campus, solar panels seem to be more viable than wind turbines (U.S. Department of Energy, n.d.-a; U.S. Department of Energy, n.d.-b).

---

## Reference List

Google Earth. (2026). Google Earth. Available at: https://www.google.com/earth/ (Accessed: 21 April 2026).

Met Office. (n.d.). Latest weather observations guide. Available at: https://weather.metoffice.gov.uk/guides/observations/observations (Accessed: 21 April 2026).

National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI). (n.d.). Site Selection Criteria. Available at: https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/crn/sites.html (Accessed: 21 April 2026).

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). (2024). What Are High and Low Pressure Systems? Available at: https://www.nesdis.noaa.gov/about/k-12-education/weather-forecasting/what-are-high-and-low-pressure-systems (Accessed: 21 April 2026).

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). (2025). NOAA Releases 10-Year Strategy for Data Assimilation. Available at: https://epic.noaa.gov/10-year-strategy-for-data-assimilation/ (Accessed: 21 April 2026).

U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.-a). Large-Scale Solar Siting Resources. Available at: https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/large-scale-solar-siting-resources (Accessed: 21 April 2026).

U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.-b). Small Wind Guidebook. Available at: https://www.energy.gov/eere/wind/windexchange/windexchange/small-wind-guidebook (Accessed: 21 April 2026).

World Meteorological Organization (WMO). (2024). Guide to Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO-No. 8). Available at: https://wmo.int/guide-instruments-and-methods-of-observation-wmo-no-8-0 (Accessed: 21 April 2026).

## Appendix

Appendix A. Photographs of original data recording sheets

![Original Data](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e6cbad46958.jpg)

End

本文标题：Lab Report 5B Weather Observations

本文链接：https://bjtuedu.cn/index.php/archives/47/

除非另有说明，本作品遵循CC 4.0 BY-SA 版权协议。

声明：转载请注明文章来源。

最后修改：2026 年 04 月 21 日

如果觉得我的文章对你有用，请随意赞赏

发表评论取消回复
使用cookie技术保留您的个人信息以便您下次快速评论，继续评论表示您已同意该条款

评论 *

私密评论

名称 *

🎲

邮箱 *

地址

Lab Report 5B Weather Observations

ZCTigerRoot • 2026 年 04 月 21 日

# 5B Weather Observations

## 1. Introduction

---

## 2. Materials and Methods

### 2.1 Measuring Instruments

#### 2.1.1 Compass

![Figure 1: The Naturehike orienteering compass](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e58e37c3164.png)

Figure 1: The Naturehike orienteering compass

### 2.1.2 Digital Anemometer

![Figure 2: PM6252B Digital Anemometer](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e595141c54a.webp)

Figure 2: PM6252B Digital Anemometer

### 2.1.3 Psychrometer

![Figure 3: The Elcometer 116A Psychrometer](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e595a0b9177.jpg)

Figure 3: The Elcometer 116A Psychrometer

### 2.1.4 The Light Meter

![Figure 4. The Light Meter. Source: Hao Xuanjie.](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e596b4b73c3.png)

Figure 4. The Light Meter. Source: Hao Xuanjie.

### **2.1.5 The Soil Detector**

The multipurpose soil tester was used to obtain readings for soil moisture content and pH. The instrument was placed in the soil to a depth of about 5 cm and its reading was noted.

![Figure 5. The Soil Detector. Source: Hao Xuanjie.](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e62f2706b32.png)

Figure 5. The Soil Detector. Source: Hao Xuanjie.

### 2.1.6 Barometer

![Figure 6. The Mingle Analog Barometer. Source: Hao Xuanjie.](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e62f21dbeb8.png)

Figure 6. The Mingle Analog Barometer. Source: Hao Xuanjie.

### 2.1.7 Portable Weather Station

![Figure 7. The Portable Weather Station and its Remote Control. Source: Hao Xuanjie.](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e62f1a121e2.png)

Figure 7. The Portable Weather Station and its Remote Control. Source: Hao Xuanjie.

### 2.2 Observation Method

---

## 3. Results

### 3.1 Observation Locations

![Figure 8: The Observation Position Marked With Flag in Satellite Map](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e62f1b42ee3.png)

Figure 8: The Observation Position Marked With Flag in Satellite Map

### 3.2 Observational Data

Table 1: Record from Hand-held Instruments at Spot 1

Table 2: Record from Weather Station Instruments in Spot 1

Table 3: Record from Weather Station and hand hold Instruments in Pos 2

---

## 4. Discussion

### 4.1 The Overview of Weather Observation

### 4.2 Weakness Analysis

### 4.3 The Implemental Suggest of Weather Station

![Figure 9: Recommended location for the campus weather station](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e6c3d1958a2.png)

Figure 9: Recommended location for the campus weather station

### 4.4 Renewable Energy Suggestion

---

## 5. Conclusion

---

## Reference List

Google Earth. (2026). Google Earth. Available at: https://www.google.com/earth/ (Accessed: 21 April 2026).

Met Office. (n.d.). Latest weather observations guide. Available at: https://weather.metoffice.gov.uk/guides/observations/observations (Accessed: 21 April 2026).

National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI). (n.d.). Site Selection Criteria. Available at: https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/crn/sites.html (Accessed: 21 April 2026).

U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.-a). Large-Scale Solar Siting Resources. Available at: https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/large-scale-solar-siting-resources (Accessed: 21 April 2026).

U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.-b). Small Wind Guidebook. Available at: https://www.energy.gov/eere/wind/windexchange/windexchange/small-wind-guidebook (Accessed: 21 April 2026).

## Appendix

Appendix A. Photographs of original data recording sheets

![Original Data](https://wmimg.com/i/1927/2026/04/69e6cbad46958.jpg)

Lab Report 5B Weather Observations

发表评论取消回复
使用cookie技术保留您的个人信息以便您下次快速评论，继续评论表示您已同意该条款

欢迎使用 Typecho

基于EasyN2N和injciv6的文明6公网联机方式

[Updating] Mini Project - AI Comparison

United States GP Sprint Qualifying: Max Verstappen returns to pole position with title rival Lando Norris only fourth

全文来了！校长余祖俊在2024级新生开学典礼上的讲话！

孩子们，我回来了

[自留]English Presentation

Lecture 8 – 溶解度 (Solubility) 与配合物平衡 (Complex Ion Equilibria)

Lecture 9 – 氧化与还原 (Oxidation and Reduction)

Lecture 11 – 有机化学 (Organic Chemistry)

Lab Report 5B Weather Observations

发表评论 取消回复 使用cookie技术保留您的个人信息以便您下次快速评论，继续评论表示您已同意该条款

Lab Report 5B Weather Observations

发表评论取消回复
使用cookie技术保留您的个人信息以便您下次快速评论，继续评论表示您已同意该条款