Abbreviation for binary digit. The smallest unit of information, equal to one binary decision, i.e. 1/0, on/off, yes/no.

Anemometer which generates an electrical contact output with a frequency proportional to wind speed.

Radiation with wavelengths greater than 4 microns. (In meteorology, same as infrared radiation.)

A polariscope consisting of a specially constructed double plate polarizer and a tourmaline plate analyzer. Polarized light passing through the instrument is indicated by the presence of parallel colored fringes, while unpolarized light results in a unifo ...

A line drawn through geographical points having the same duration of sunshine (or other function of solar radiation) during a given interval of time.

The study of waters (including oceans, lakes, and rivers) embracing either: (a) their physical characteristics, from the standpoint of the oceanographer or limnologist; or (b) the elements affecting safe navigation, from the point of view of the mariner. ...

A self-recording psychrometer.

The degree of conformity of an indicated value to an accepted standard value, or ideal value. See accuracy rating, measured accuracy.

A form of data transmission in which the bits of each character are sent one at a time along a single communication path. Compare to parallel data transmission.

Downward-facing pyranometer used for measuring reflected solar radiation.

A recording magnetometer.

A special form of the aspiration psychrometer. developed by Assmann, in which the thermometric elements are well shielded from radiation. Psychrometric measurements may be taken with the instrument in the presence of direct solar radiation.

See gain.

Small particle on which water vapor condenses.

Operation mode of a communication circuit in which each end can transmit and receive, but not simultaneously.

Rate of wind movement in distance per unit time.

A system in which radar techniques are used to determine the range, elevation, and azimuth of a radar target carried a!oft by a radiosonde, so that wind data may be obtained along with the other meteorological data.

Random Access Memory. The memory of a computer which can be read and written into at any location without passing through preceding locations.

Automated Weather Observing Station. A self-contained weather station designed to make aviation weather observations without operator involvement.

The combined processes by which water is transferred from the earth's surface to the atmosphere: evaporation of liquid or solid water plus transpiration from plants.