About this book: After a brief introduction to the climate system and an explanation of fundamental concepts, the physical foundations of the atmospheric energy and water balance are discussed in detail. The formation of wind and an overview of atmospheric circulation are covered in additional chapters. The regional section examines weather and climate in key areas of the Earth in relation to atmospheric circulation and relevant climate factors. Questions regarding the classification of climates based on genetic and effective criteria follow. Discussions on climate variability and climate change, with a special focus on anthropogenic climate influence on both global and local scales, conclude the volume. From the table of contents: General climatology, the atmosphere, solar climate, energy turnover, and radiation.