Station model — Science definition
A small cluster of symbols and numbers on a weather map that packs in one location's temperature, wind, and cloud cover at a glance.
Where it is taught
- Reading Weather Patterns — Atmosphere & Weather, Earth & Space Science, Grade 9
In use
To pack even more into one spot on the map, meteorologists use a station model — a compact cluster of symbols and numbers that reports one location's temperature, wind speed and direction, cloud cover, and more, all at a glance.
Reading Weather Patterns
Questions using station model
Problem 1
Answer and explanation
A station model places each quantity in a fixed position around a circle: temperature and dew point on the left, pressure on the upper right, cloud cover shown by how much of the circle is filled, and a wind barb whose shaft shows direction and whose feathers show speed. Because every station uses the same convention, a forecaster can read a whole map at a glance and compare places directly.
Response criteria
- State a scientifically accurate conclusion.
- Show the data, mechanism, or calculation that supports it.
- Include units, conditions, or limits where relevant.