Kerry Whisnant, an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and professor of physics at Iowa State University, may be on to something that will greatly impact team winning percentages. Mathematical models that he and other fanatic baseball statisticians have helped produce may accurately predict teams' successes. Whisnant and other members of the Society for American Baseball Research have analyzed...
Climatologist
Climatologists study climate conditions averaged over a period of time. They use climate models for a variety of purposes, from the study of the dynamics of the weather and climate system to projections of future climate. In contrast to meteorology, which focuses on short term weather systems lasting up to a few weeks, climatology studies the frequency and trends of those systems. Climatology considers the past and can help predict future climate change.
Low-end Salary:
$38,990/yr
Median Salary:
$81,290/yr
High-end Salary:
$127,100/yr Education:
Climatologists need to have a strong background in mathematics and science. In fact, a bachelor’s degree in mathematics provides excellent preparation for graduate study in climatology. Climatologists often pursue higher education by obtaining a master’s degree and a Ph.D.
Math Required:
College Algebra
Trigonometry
Calculus I, II, III
Probability and Statistics
Linear Algebra
Ordinary Differential Equations
Partial Differential Equations
Complex Analysis
Numerical Methods
When Math Is Used:
A climatologist uses mathematical skills in collecting climate data, investigating climate indicators, and making predictions regarding climate patterns. They may use computer models to study how Earth's climate changes with time, and sophisticated computer software programs that assist them in modeling the Earth's climate and check that data against known information. They conduct research to determine if humans are affecting Earth's present and future climate.
Potential Employers:
About 37 percent of atmospheric scientists are employed by the Federal Government; most of these work in the National Weather Service. Others worked for professional, scientific, and technical services firms, including private weather consulting services; radio and television broadcasting; air carriers; and State government.
Facts:
Climatologists are able to study and research special occurrences of the Earth’s climate. For example, in 1995 climatologists declared that year “the hottest year on record.” Four years later, the 1990s were confirmed as the hottest decade in 1,000 years.
Citations:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Climatology
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos051.htm
http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/science/03/31/Intro.timeline/index.html?ire...
http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes192021.htm
http://moregrumbinescience.blogspot.com/2008/08/math-in-climatology.html
http://www.examiner.com/x-3132-Philadelphia-Conservative-Examiner~y2009m...
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Quote Of The Day
"Students often ask me what to take in school… my answer?... follow your natural interests, but take lots of math!"
Vice President and General Manager for GE Medical Systems
General Electric Company
Figures represent salary potential.
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