Atmospheric water plays a key role in climate. Water vapour is the most important greenhouse gas and its condensed forms exert a profound influence on both incoming solar and outgoing infrared radiation. Unfortunately, accurate, height-resolved global-scale measurements of atmospheric humidity are difficult to obtain. The change in concentration of five orders of magnitude form the ground to the stratosphere means there is no standard instrument that will measure everywhere. This has led to different measuring techniques, all with strengths and weaknesses. This book assesses all presently available techniques that are used in monitoring networks. Special weight is given to presenting the different technical concepts, the accuracy of different sensor types, addresses calibration issues and retrieval aspects.

Survey of present state of knowledge.

A quantitative introduction to atmospheric science for students and professionals who want to understand and apply basic meteorological concepts but who are not ready for calculus.

The first volume of The Handbook of Humidity Measurement focuses on the review of devices based on optical principles of measurement such as optical UV, fluorescence hygrometers, optical and fiber-optic sensors of various types. Numerous methods for monitoring the atmosphere have been developed in recent years, based on measuring the absorption of electromagnetic field in different spectral ranges. These methods, covering the optical (FTIR and Lidar techniques), as well as a microwave and THz ranges are discussed in detail in this volume. The role of humidity-sensitive materials in optical and fiber-optic sensors is also detailed. This volume describes the reasons for controlling the humidity, features of water and water vapors, and units used for humidity measurement.

Advances in Spectroscopic Monitoring of the Atmosphere provides a comprehensive overview of cutting-edge technologies and monitoring applications. Concepts are illustrated by numerous examples with information on spectroscopic techniques and applications widely distributed throughout the text. This information is important for researchers to gain an overview of recent developments in the field and make informed selections among the most suitable techniques. This volume also provides information that will allow researchers to explore implementing and developing new diagnostic tools or new approaches for trace gas and aerosol sensing themselves. Advances in Spectroscopic Monitoring of the Atmosphere covers advanced and newly emerging spectroscopic techniques for optical metrology of gases and particles in the atmosphere. This book will be a valuable reference for atmospheric scientists, including those whose focus is applying the methods to atmospheric studies, and those who develop instrumentation. It will also serve as a useful introduction to researchers entering the field and provide relevant examples to researchers and students developing and applying optical sensors for a variety of other scientific, technical, and industrial uses. - Overview of new applications including remote sensing by UAV, laser heterodyne radiometry, dual comb spectroscopy, and more - Features in-situ observations and measurements for real-world data - Includes content on leading edge optical sensors

Offering all aspects of humidity measurement and instrumentation, this work includes rudiments and theory, common applications, advantages and limitations of frequently-used sensors and techniques, and guidelines for installation, maintenance and calibration. The disk is intended for easy conversions of humidity parameters and units.