Book 7, Question 24 · Video
Why Do Weather Balloons Go So High?
Weather balloons carry little sensors called radiosondes up into the sky. They rise far above the clouds, into thin air, to measure temperature, humidity, and wind. Forecasters use
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What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do weather balloons go so high?
The Big Idea
Weather balloons carry little sensors called radiosondes up into the sky. They rise far above the clouds, into thin air, to measure temperature, humidity, and wind. Forecasters use those measurements to predict tomorrow's weather.
A Balloon Is Filled With Gas
Step one: the balloon is filled. Scientists fill a big balloon with helium or hydrogen, gases lighter than the air around it. The balloon floats up like a bubble rising in water.
It Climbs and Measures
Step two: it climbs and measures. As it rises, the radiosonde measures temperature, humidity, and air pressure, and sends the numbers to the ground by radio. Tracking where the balloon drifts also tells scientists how fast the wind is blowing.
It Pops and Parachutes Down
Step three: it pops and floats back down. Higher up, there is less air pressing in, so the balloon swells until it bursts, often about 30 kilometers up. A small parachute brings the radiosonde gently back to the ground.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look at a weather balloon! The balloon is what lifts everything up. The radiosonde is the small box of sensors. And the parachute slows the fall after the balloon pops.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! Weather balloons are flying weather robots' elevators. They are launched twice a day at hundreds of places around the world. A balloon can reach a height of about 30 kilometers, which is much higher than where airplanes fly. If you ever find a radiosonde, read its label and tell a grown-up.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! With a grown-up, search for weather balloon launch videos. Watch how big the balloon looks on the ground. See how it grows as it climbs. Then explain why it eventually pops, and what happens to the thin air at that height.
Outro
Weather balloons carry tiny robots up to read the sky for us. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!