Question

Climate is defined as the study of average meteorological variables of any region of at least

• A. 35 years
• B. 40 years
• C. 30 years
• D. 50 years

Hint:

Weather vs Climate: Weather = Short-term atmospheric state (hours/days). Climate = Long-term meteorological statistical average over AT LEAST 30 YEARS (WMO standard).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) climatological definition: climate is the statistical average and variability of weather conditions over a standard reference period of 30 years.
Key Formula or Approach:
\[ \text{Climatological Normal Period (WMO Standard)} = 30\text{ Consecutive Years} \]

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In meteorology, climatology, and animal biometeorology:
- Weather represents the instantaneous day-to-day atmospheric conditions (temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind).
- According to the formal standard definition established by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO):
Climate is defined as the statistical average and variance of meteorological parameters (temperature, precipitation, sunshine, wind velocity) over a minimum standardized period of at least 30 years (known as 'Climatological Standard Normals').

Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, climate is defined as the average of variables of at least 30 years, matching option (C).