(Click image for a larger view) | Thermodynamic charts such as the Skew-T log (p) diagram are one of the best kept secrets in aviation. It represents the absolute best power tool in the pilot's aviation weather toolbox. Specifically, the Skew-T log (p) diagram will often highlight adverse weather better than any other single chart or diagram available. Icing potential, cloud bases, cloud tops, cloud layers, turbulence, non-convective low level wind shear, haze, instability, thunderstorm potential, precipitation type, cloud type, fog and visibility are just some of the weather elements that can be inferred by this diagram.
As a result, this program on CD-ROM offers an introduction to the Skew-T log (p) diagram. Using many real world examples in this presentation you will learn:
The origin and use of each and every line on the
Skew-T log (p) base diagram.
Lapse rates and parcel theory and how they are used to
assess atmospheric (in)stability.
How to determine the bases of stratus and cumulus clouds at an airport.
How to use the dewpoint depression to identify the tops of stratiform clouds.
How to use a lifted parcel to approximate the maximum tops of cumuliform clouds and thunderstorms.
How to derive the Lifted Index (LI), Convective Available Potential Energy (CAPE), K Index (KI) and Convective Inhibition (CINH).
How to assess convective potential or thunderstorm potential.
How to identify the freezing level to recognize the potential for icing, freezing rain, freezing drizzle and supercooled liquid water.
How to recognize the potential for radiation fog and other phenomenon related to temperature inversions.
What causes non-convective low level wind shear (LLWS) associated with warm-air advection and warm-frontal overrunning.
The signature for mountain wave turbulence and how to find the altitude that will give you the smoothest ride.
How to use the NOAA RUC soundings Java tool. Bios: Scott C. Dennstaedt is an FAA-certificated instrument flight instructor and former NWS meteorologist specializing in aviation weather training.
Approximate duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes.
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Books and Videos - Software - Weather
