But clouds are just one element of the highly complex atmospheric phenomena that are the basis of what we call “weather” and “climate”. Although operating at vastly different temporal (time) and spatial scales both of these are comprised of the same individual elements: air temperature, cloudiness, atmospheric pressure, humidity and wind. Each of these is constantly changing as well as often interacting with other elements. For example the formation of dew in the early morning of summer and early fall is the result of interactions between temperature and humidity.

Photo Copyright Amy Lilienfeld 2017.

But there are widespread beliefs and claims that all extreme weather events are a result of climate change. A recent study has shown that such beliefs have even been a source of stress among students (Redelmeier 2024). This adds greater urgency for us to increase our understanding of these complex systems and possible interactions between them.

Redelmeier, Rebecca. Dec. 22, 2024. “College Students Get Emotional About Climate Change. Some Are Finding Help in Class”, NPR, accessible at: https://www.npr.org/2024/12/22/nx-s1-5235404/college-students-struggle-climate-anxiety-find-help-class).

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But fortunately— for those of us teaching weather, climate and other earth-science topics — there is a wealth of data in a variety of forms online— as well as satellite imagery —with which we can help students start making sense of these and other complex phenomena, such as the dynamic processes characteristic of our Earth’s crust, as early as the upper elementary grades.