What Does an Atmospheric Scientist Do?

Key Learning Objectives:

1. To understand the main responsibilities of a professional atmospheric scientist at LLNL
2. To understand how different elements in Earth’s atmosphere interact when contamination is introduced
3. To understand how LLNL’s atmospheric scientists use computer models to study atmospheric conditions at the Earth’s surface to predict the spread and impact of contamination

Key Terminology:
Atmosphere, dispersion, contaminant

Relevant NGSS Standards:
High School: HS-ESS3 Earth and Human Activity
https://www.nextgenscience.org/dci-arrangement/hs-ess3-earth-and-human-activity

Middle School: MS-ESS3 Earth and Human Activity
https://www.nextgenscience.org/dci-arrangement/ms-ess3-earth-and-human-activity

Potential Follow-up Questions:

1. What coursework should students pursue if interested in atmospheric science?
2. What are some more examples of projects that LLNL’s National Atmospheric Release Advisory Center has conducted?
3. Does NARAC monitor atmospheric conditions on a daily basis, or only in times of crisis?
4. What is the smallest amount of atmospheric contamination that can be detected?