A system of detecting and locating targets which are capable of reflecting high frequency radio waves (microwaves), generally in the wavelength range from a fraction of a centimetre to some tens of centimetres. Radar is used in meteorology to detect and measure cloud and precipitaion elements. Radar images are regularly used in television weather broadcasts to show the movement of rain bearing cloud formations across the country.
Radiation:
Process by which energy travels across space.
Radiosonde:
A small radio transmitter which is attached to a balloon and released to measure pressure, temperature and humidity in the upper atmosphere.
Rain:
Drops of liquid water falling from clouds.
Rain Shadow:
An area of decreased rainfall on the lee side of a hill or mountain.
Refraction:
The bending of light as it passes from one medium to another e.g., from air to water.
Ridge:
An elongated area of high air pressure.
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external websites.
Radar: