This document presents, in a clear and concise manner, a broad overview of the fundamental and classical knowledge in climatology. Climatology has become a topic widely covered by the media: climate warming, natural disasters, urban pollution—there is no shortage of themes. It is therefore an essential science in today’s world.
This document first explains the difference between climate and weather (or, in other words, the difference between climatology and meteorology), then the functioning of the climate system (atmosphere, solar radiation, temperatures, winds, high and low pressure systems, etc.).
The distribution and characteristics of the major current climate zones of the planet are explained through a classification system. This allows one to understand the diversity of environmental conditions that determine the distribution of vegetation types and human occupation.
The document follows a pedagogical approach suitable for first-year Master’s students in Hydrogeology.
- Enseignant: NAWEL BOUSAADA