With our attention focused on our environment, many look to create solar power and conserve energy. Technology has advanced making it easier and more affordable for people to obtain this goal. Two of the most popular choices include solar power and wind power.

Wind power generation is a great alternative that creates clean and renewable energy. With solar power becoming more popular, the variety of choices have become wide spread. You can build a small scale generator in a short amount of time using parts available at your local hardware store. This option may not be right for everyone, although its a great alternative that will save you money for many years to come.

One of the most popular choices for creating solar energy is investing in solar panels. This may require a rather large investment which will pay for itself with time. Many people are now building their own solar panels for a couple hunred dollars in a short amount of time. DIY projects have become more popular since it’s an inexpensive way to create solar power and crastically reduce electricity bills.

There are many choices available and many more ways to build your own alternatives. We can all start conserving energy and not all choices involve an out of pocket investment. Turning of lights, closing vents in unused rooms, washing clothes in cold water are just a few ways to conserve that don’t cost a penny. We can all start somewhere and make a change for the better.

What ever your choice may be remember that not all changes have a price tag attached. No matter what your choice is, a change big or small will be rewarding. Not only will you benefit, generations to come will. Hopefully we all can make changes that leave a positive impact well after we are gone.

When scientists and meteorologists discuss the very general topic if weather, the conversation usually revolves around various types of clouds. In fact, there are two basic categories of clouds, the cumuliform and the stratiform. Within these two general types, scientists and weather observers distinguish a number of sub-types, depending on weather conditions and appearance.

When scientists and meteorologists discuss the very general topic if weather, the conversation usually revolves around various types of clouds. In fact, there are two basic categories of clouds, the cumuliform and the stratiform. Within these two general types, scientists and weather observers distinguish a number of sub-types, depending on weather conditions and appearance.

According to most historical accounts, an Englishman named Luke Howard developed a cloud classifying plan and presented it to a scientific society in 1803. The names he employed were based on the common practice of using the Latin language. This method allowed for combinations of cloud names, thus creating some of the sub-types.

According to most historical accounts, an Englishman named Luke Howard developed a cloud classifying plan and presented it to a scientific society in 1803. The names he employed were based on the common practice of using the Latin language. This method allowed for combinations of cloud names, thus creating some of the sub-types.

In contrast, the stratiform cloud is so-named because of the Latin stratus meaning “layer.” These clouds are literally flat and layered, as the name implies. In a different process from the formation of cumulus clouds, the stratiform type of cloud gathers with frontal systems and are often associated with more stable climate conditions.

In contrast, the stratiform cloud is so-named because of the Latin stratus meaning “layer.” These clouds are literally flat and layered, as the name implies. In a different process from the formation of cumulus clouds, the stratiform type of cloud gathers with frontal systems and are often associated with more stable climate conditions.

The altitude at which clouds form can also help determine what type they are. For example, those clouds above 16,500 feet above sea level are generally known as cirrus clouds. This means that the “cirro” is sometimes added to give specific names to basic cloud types. There is another sub-type of cloud, generally forming at 6,500 feet and up to the level of cirrus clouds. This type of cloud can sometimes be known as an “alto” cloud. Those clouds forming at lower levels are usually classified only as one of two basic types – stratus and cumulus.

However, there are cumulonimbus clouds that many consider a class of its own because this type of cloud can be found at nearly all altitudes. The term “nimbus” is meant to indicate that the cloud holds rain. Of course, the practice of cloud classification is far from an perfect science. Yet, most experts know that the flexibility of the system may fit the infinite variations in cloud appearance.

Nearly everyone is aware that clouds form with rising air that cools until water vapor is at a saturation point. Droplets that grow large enough can be drawn to the earth by gravity, and we have what is commonly known as precipitation. There are several common types of precipitation – rain, sleet and snow among the different types. Clouds are the birthplace of the precipitation experienced on the ground.

San Diego is touted as a tremendous vacation destination. As a local, I can tell you it is. From family events to a vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone and you’ll never get bored.

The World Famous San Diego Zoo can make the garish claim for a good reason. It is pretty amazing. Snuggled five minutes from downtown San Diego in the middle of Balboa Park, the zoo is a collection of beautiful space and animals.

When it comes to partying, San Diego has a vast collection of locations that cater to everyone. One of the best is Lahaina’s in Pacific Beach. Picture an outdoors deck facing the boardwalk and beach with plenty of beer and you have the right idea.

Just trolley it baby! San Diego has installed a trolley system that runs through parts of the county. Throw away your schedule of things to see. Just jump on the trolley, get off when you like and do some exploring. We’re friendly people.

Balboa Park is an excellent area for spending a day. You can just kick back and people watch or you can take in the various museums in the park. They range from historical to space museums. If all else fails, the zoo is also there.

If an adult beverage in a more regal spot is your idea of a good time, the Hyatt in downtown San Diego is the place to go. Well, the top floor at least. It is a classy bar with large windows overlooking all of San Diego.

Looking to do a bit of dancing. From the Tango to line dancing to whatever is hot, one needs look no farther than downtown San Diego. Head over to E street and prepare to burn off dinner with some seriously fun gyrating.

Looking for something really different? How about bull fighting? They don’t allow it in San Diego, but you can hop across the border and catch it in Tijuana. The bull ring is located on the coast to the west of the city.

From golfing to hang gliding to just about anything you can think of, San Diego has it. Drive, fly, take a train or walk to San Diego and you will be happy you did at the end of the trip. In fact, many people never actually go home.

Having lived in San Diego for much of my life, I find it amazing that many visitors stick to just the Zoo and beaches. My friends, there is so much more to do. In fact, here are some attractions for families and single adults alike.

Viva la Mexico! San Diego sits on the border with Tijuana just to the south. TJ, as it is known, is a lot of fun. Unfortunately, there has been a lot of drug crime lately, so make sure to check with locals on that status before heading down.

Looking for something very different? How about the strangest amusement park you’ve probably ever seen. Yep, I am talking about Legoland in Carlsbad. As the name suggests, the park is primarily made out of Legos. A kid’s delight.

San Diego has the Padres. They’re a professional baseball team. They’re not very good, but it really doesn’t matter. San Diego has a new baseball stadium that is amazing. Petco Park. You can even bring a dog while catching a game.

Balboa Park is an excellent area for spending a day. You can just kick back and people watch or you can take in the various museums in the park. They range from historical to space museums. If all else fails, the zoo is also there.

Like the idea of a Safari? The Wild Animal Park in San Diego has animals in open spaces. You can view them by hopping on a train that scoots through the park. Wild animals not in cages, oh my!

Looking to do a bit of dancing. From the Tango to line dancing to whatever is hot, one needs look no farther than downtown San Diego. Head over to E street and prepare to burn off dinner with some seriously fun gyrating.

Ever wondered what a yard of beer tastes like? Well, now you can find out. Head over to O’Hungry in Old Town. They serve beer by the yard. It comes in a long glass with a bulb on the end. At least, I faintly remember that being the case. Don’t Drive!

From golfing to hang gliding to just about anything you can think of, San Diego has it. Drive, fly, take a train or walk to San Diego and you will be happy you did at the end of the trip. In fact, many people never actually go home.

Having lived in San Diego for much of my life, I find it amazing that many visitors stick to just the Zoo and beaches. My friends, there is so much more to do. In fact, here are some attractions for families and single adults alike.

The World Famous San Diego Zoo can make the garish claim for a good reason. It is pretty amazing. Snuggled five minutes from downtown San Diego in the middle of Balboa Park, the zoo is a collection of beautiful space and animals.

Looking for something very different? How about the strangest amusement park you’ve probably ever seen. Yep, I am talking about Legoland in Carlsbad. As the name suggests, the park is primarily made out of Legos. A kid’s delight.

San Diego has the Padres. They’re a professional baseball team. They’re not very good, but it really doesn’t matter. San Diego has a new baseball stadium that is amazing. Petco Park. You can even bring a dog while catching a game.

Love a good slab of meat? Prime rib specifically? Try Bully’s in Del Mar. This dingy bar/restaurant has been a famous gathering place for years for locals looking for prime rib that is simply mouth watering.

Like the idea of a Safari? The Wild Animal Park in San Diego has animals in open spaces. You can view them by hopping on a train that scoots through the park. Wild animals not in cages, oh my!

Looking to do a bit of dancing. From the Tango to line dancing to whatever is hot, one needs look no farther than downtown San Diego. Head over to E street and prepare to burn off dinner with some seriously fun gyrating.

Ever wondered what a yard of beer tastes like? Well, now you can find out. Head over to O’Hungry in Old Town. They serve beer by the yard. It comes in a long glass with a bulb on the end. At least, I faintly remember that being the case. Don’t Drive!

When it comes to having fun in San Diego, the list of things you can do is practically endless. It is pretty hard to have a bad time, so just get out there and go. We are all friendly, so don’t hesitate to ask for some help or advice if you need it.

San Diego is touted as a tremendous vacation destination. As a local, I can tell you it is. From family events to a vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone and you’ll never get bored.

Viva la Mexico! San Diego sits on the border with Tijuana just to the south. TJ, as it is known, is a lot of fun. Unfortunately, there has been a lot of drug crime lately, so make sure to check with locals on that status before heading down.

Looking for something very different? How about the strangest amusement park you’ve probably ever seen. Yep, I am talking about Legoland in Carlsbad. As the name suggests, the park is primarily made out of Legos. A kid’s delight.

Like to play the slots? A good card game sound fun? Well, gambling is illegal in San Diego County. However, Indian reservations have no such restrictions and they surround San Diego. Sycuan’s is a popular one.

Balboa Park is an excellent area for spending a day. You can just kick back and people watch or you can take in the various museums in the park. They range from historical to space museums. If all else fails, the zoo is also there.

If an adult beverage in a more regal spot is your idea of a good time, the Hyatt in downtown San Diego is the place to go. Well, the top floor at least. It is a classy bar with large windows overlooking all of San Diego.

The Del Mar Fairgrounds are a summer delight for visitors. From June through early July, you can attend the fair, eat too much and takes rides. From July through early September, the horses run at the race track within the fairgrounds.

Looking for something really different? How about bull fighting? They don’t allow it in San Diego, but you can hop across the border and catch it in Tijuana. The bull ring is located on the coast to the west of the city.

From golfing to hang gliding to just about anything you can think of, San Diego has it. Drive, fly, take a train or walk to San Diego and you will be happy you did at the end of the trip. In fact, many people never actually go home.

Global warming and climate change are moving to centerstage. Global warming is a huge issue with intensely intimate consequences at the personal and community level. What we need to recognize is that choices we make in the way we live at the local and community level can make differences.

Many of the choices we make about how we choose to live are economic and political choices. These are choices about forms of preferred consumption and the means of production. They are political choices in terms of energy production and transportation choice.

Global Warming is only the most recent case of man inducted troubles for the earth. Rachel Carson’s campaign against DDT caused malaria to re-emerge in Africa, killing hundreds of thousands of human beings. There are often unintended consequences in our actions.

Greenhouse gases play an important role but are only a contributing factor. It should not come as a surprise that our entire solar system has been warming for the last quarter century, or that the most accurate weather forecasts come from algorithms that concentrate on solar fluctuations and cosmic rays. Greenhouse gases are an air pollution problem, and all air pollution problems of the past have cost significantly less to fix than projected, while declining faster than expected.

This gives cause to hope that greenhouse gases can soon be controlled reasonably cheaply and without wrenching sacrifices to the global economy. However, getting all developed nations to take part in reducing emissions will not be easy. Recent evidence suggests that changes like the melting of glaciers and of polar icecaps are occurring much faster than expected. A positive feedback loop caused by man man and naturally occurring cyclical trends may have already been established and climate change will progress on an accelerated course no matter what we now do to try and reverse it.

Greenhouses use a Co2 “poison” level of 1000pmm which is great for plant growth. This level of Co2 has not hurt anyone yet, even those who spend a long period of time in such an environment. But the problem is not in inhaling the gas. It is that Co2 causes temperature increases. Greenhouse gases are accumulating in Earth’s atmosphere as a result of human activities, causing surface air temperatures and subsurface ocean temperatures to rise. Temperatures are in fact rising at a speed that is alarming.

Climate prediction relies on other, longer term factors. For instance, we might not know if it will be below freezing on a specific December day in New England, but we know from our understanding of the region’s climate that the temperatures during the month will generally be low. Climate change due to human influence, a phenomenon that many commentators seem unwilling or unable to accept, is the result of unsustainable activities. It is a worldwide problem and that is a big part of the challenge. Effective controlling measures will take a level of cooperation between nations that has never before taken place.

Since the late-19th century, the industrialized world has been using fossil fuels, both coal and petroleum, to produce our comfortable, energy intensive lifestyle. Over the next 20 to 50 years climate change , whether caused by natural or human factors, or a combination of both, will likely have serious consequences on huge numbers of the earth’s population.

Damage to coral reefs is already well underway. Scientists emphasize that most of the damage to coral is inflicted by global warming through coral bleaching, the result of higher water temperatures heating the coral. The warming waters stress the coral, which then expels the microscopic plants or algae that give the coral color and nourishes it. Scientists have shown that cave formations could help settle the contentious debate on whether hurricanes are strengthening in intensity due to global warming.

Measuring oxygen isotope variation in stalagmites in Actun Tunichil Muknal cave in central Belize, a team of researchers have identified evidence of rainfall from 11 tropical cyclones over a 23 year period (1978-2001). Scientists believe CO2 levels will rise another 30% during the next 50 years and lead to the increasing violence of storms.

Scientists are increasingly worried about emissions from developing countries like China and India, both of which have populations exceeding one billion people. China is expected to pass the United States this year or next to become the world’s largest emitter of global warming gases. Scientists have concluded that human activities are contributing to global warming by adding large amounts of heat-trapping gases to the atmosphere. Our fossil fuel use is the main source of these gases and it is doubtful that we will be able to seriously slow down emissions.

Scientists made their discovery by comparing the SeaWiFS record of the rise and fall of global ocean plant life to different measures of recent global climate change. The climate records included several factors that directly affect ocean conditions, such as changes in sea surface temperature and surface winds.

Climate change due to human influence, a phenomenon that many commentators seem unwilling or unable to accept, is the result of unsustainable activities. Since the late-19th century, the industrialized world has been using fossil fuels, both coal and petroleum, to produce our comfortable, energy-intensive lifestyle. It is difficult to break away from the use of fossil fuels as so many of the earth’s population depend upon them for energy and economic development.

There are plenty of troubling signs that trouble is on the way. For example, ice sheets break away from the Perito Moreno Glacier in Patagonia, Argentina, where the melting rate of ice fields has doubled in recent years. Glaciers around the world are rapidily retreating, a sure sign, scientists say, of global warming. Ice core records show that whenever CO2 has increased in the earth’s past, so has temperature. The recent increase in atmospheric CO2 is 200 times as great as any previous change seen in the ice cores.

All the signs are there for dramatic changes to occur with the earth’s weather over the next few years. In fact, judging from recent drought, hurricane and tornado activity the leading edge of this activity may be upon us. The speed at which climate change is now occurring is surprising the scientists. It may be that it is already too late to escape disaster and that much of the 21st century will be one of increasing worldwide misery.

Weather patterns on planet Earth, the everyday conditions experienced by plants and animals, are the product of a complex set of factors that work together and against each other to produce certain results. For centuries men and women fascinated by weather have tried to forecast conditions for the following day or the next week. Efforts have been made to put together long-range plans for precipitation and temperature for a year or more in the future.

Fortunately, in recent years, advancement in computer technology and measuring devices has allowed more accurate weather prediction than ever before. Along with a greater understanding of the laws of physics, human beings have benefited from information gathered by weather satellites. The mass of information from these orbiting recording stations is now more efficiently handled by the powerful computers assembled for just this task. Add to this the dozens of specialized aircraft, ships and remote reporting stations and scientists are beginning to understand just what creates Earth’s unique climate conditions.

But what have human beings learned from all of this measurement and observation? One of the key facts uncovered is that the atmosphere that sustains life on Earth is an amazingly thin layer of protection. Yet this thin layer is actually composed of several distinct layers, five that we are aware of so far. The first was identified as recently as 1899.

While there are five separate pieces to the atmospheric puzzle, the level closest to Earth is the breeding ground for nearly all the weather. The troposphere literally starts at ground level and extends up to 10 miles above the Earth’s surface. Careful study and observation indicate that this layer is thinnest near the North Pole and South Pole, while it extends almost twice as high at the equator.

Meteorologists and other scientists working in this specialized field have found that, in the troposphere, temperatures gradually decrease with altitude (4 degrees for each 1,000 feet). At the outer edge of this first layer, where temperatures can be as low as -70 degrees (Fahrenheit) the boundary is called the tropopause.

Beyond this life-sustaining layer is the stratosphere, which reaches to an altitude of about 30 miles. Temperatures change drastically through this level, increasing 40 degrees or more in some cases. Scientists have also found that the protective ozone layer so familiar to most people, is located in the stratosphere (about 15 miles above the Earth’s surface).

Beyond these first two levels are: the mesosphere – this layer extends about 50 miles above the surface; the thermosphere or ionosphere, where temperatures can be close to 3,000 degrees. It is interesting to note that this layer provides a lot of protection for life on Earth, usually burning up meteors and other objects that pass through. At the far reaches of the known levels is the exosphere, composed of different kinds of gases that often escape into what is commonly known as outer space.

Even with the best measuring instruments, accurate weather predication and observation would not be possible without cooperation from the various countries around the world. Weather systems and huge air masses move around the globe and it is important for observers to know about conditions in other regions. One result of this cooperation is the World Meteorological Organization, formed more than 50 years ago to build a weather database on a global scale.

Just as the layers of the atmosphere work together to sustain life on Earth, nations of the world work together to continue learning about Earth’s weather.

Human beings are curious creatures, for the most part. One of the things men and women have always strived to understand is the climate that sustains life here on Earth. With the help of new technology and the cooperation of scientists around the globe, new information about the climate and the science of weather is being uncovered on a regular basis. With the click of a mouse you can find the weather in Malaga, Spain or Anchorage, Alaska.

Not only are the men and women of meteorology able to classify several distinct climate “zones” on the planet, they are able to make unusually accurate weather predictions for these zones as well. Certain lines of latitude are used to mark the boundaries of these climate zones, with the Arctic Circle and the Antarctic Circle as two of the more prominent markers. (These well-known latitude marks are at 66.5 degrees, both north and south.) The other two major lines of latitude used to describe climate zones are the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5 degrees south) and the Tropic of Cancer (23.5 degrees north). The designation of these tropical latitude markers is not random, by any means. These lines indicate the points farthest north and south at which the sun will appear directly above any location at midday (noon).

One of the key uses for these lines of demarcation – classifying weather and identifying the location of major storms and weather events. For scientists, the section of the globe that lies between the two tropic lines is called by the common name of “low latitudes.” This area of the Earth’s atmosphere is distinguished by its high rainfall totals, high humidity and relatively constant, warm temperatures.

The middle latitudes, ranging from the tropical latitude markers to the Arctic and Antarctic circles, have generally temperate climates. It is in this region of the globe that plant and animal life experiences four distinct seasons and somewhat consistent rainfall patterns.

Between the Arctic and Antarctic circles and the two poles are the high latitudes, regions of the globe known for long winters, cold temperatures most of the year, and very short summer seasons. The majority of precipitation in these regions is snow.

One of the key benefits of this classification system is the ability to give weather some perspective. The Earth’s climate is so complex that it can become confusing without some way of categorizing the climates of particular regions. Yet, within the above-mentioned zones, there are numerous variations. For example, weather patterns can be distinctly different over land (continental) and on or near the ocean (maritime). But that’s not all. Within these smaller classifications, scientists have to take mountains and ocean currents into account.

Beyond the efforts to describe and predict weather patterns, efforts continue to understand the larger category of climate. Climates do change, though human ability to fully understand these long-term alterations is somewhat limited. Overall, the climate zones of the globe give scientists a useful overview of weather changes as well as weather consistency. With this information we have some idea of what weather to expect tomorrow.

When two people meet on the street, or in a shop, weather is usually the first topic of conversation. Sometimes, weather is the only thing spoken about! Why is it such a widespread topic, discussed and dissected in every language around the globe?

The bottom line is that weather affects every living thing, plant and animal, every day and every night. The effects vary, from determining what clothes to wear to the construction of the homes we live in. Consider as well that most of our work and leisure activity is altered, suspended or at least influenced by weather.

At a more basic level, weather has shaped the soil of the Earth, significantly affecting the growth of all plant life and animal life. The components of “weather” such as the sun, rain and wind, cause living things to adapt in order to survive the everyday conditions and the extremes of weather in whatever habitat they occupy. Human beings have food to sustain them because of and sometimes in spite of weather conditions. In fact, a great deal of time and money is used to construct an adequate weather forecast, so that that humans can prepare for conditions that will affect agricultural crops.

While men and women may not be able to actually “do” something about the weather (at least on a large scale) the study of weather and global climate conditions has allowed scientists and other weather observers to more accurately predict conditions for the near future. This small step can help farmers and other food producers adjust their work to take advantage of “good” weather conditions and avoid damages during “bad” weather conditions.

For centuries, only priests, shamans and other spiritually guided individuals engaged in predicting and forecasting weather and human events. Many of the religious practices and rites of today have some base in the efforts at influencing or changing weather. While most of these efforts were unsuccessful, the practices continue to the present.

Why are humans so consistently unable to influence the Earth’s climate and its regular weather patterns? Why do struggles continue, as men and women try to “do” something about temperature, precipitation and wind? The simplest answer would be that the atmosphere surrounding our planet is massive and complex. But there is more. The natural tendency of any such large system is to maintain equilibrium on its own. Air masses of one temperature move, naturally, toward an area where the temperature is different (warm to cold, cold to warm). These movements are influenced by the larger features of the planet, such as mountains and oceans. The entire atmospheric system operates within the confines of gravity, another force that is difficult for humans to overcome.

When considered together, the variations in heating by the sun, the natural movement of large air masses, the effects of natural structures such as mountains, and the forces of gravity make up a system too complex for any one species to influence in a significant way. For the most part, human beings are still observers when it comes to the changing and unpredictable weather.