Atmospheric Sciences — Weather vs. Climate The discipline that focuses on day-to-day variations in weather (as distinct from long-term averages) is called:

Introduction / Context:
“Weather” describes atmospheric conditions over short periods (hours to days), while “climate” describes long-term statistics (decades). Different scientific branches emphasize these time scales. Recognizing the correct term is essential for interpreting forecasts versus climate normals.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Focus is daily to weekly variability.
• Not concerned with 30-year normals or long-term trends in this question.
• Terminology is standard in earth sciences curricula.

Concept / Approach:
Meteorology examines atmospheric processes that drive immediate weather: fronts, convection, cyclones, jet streams, and precipitation systems. Climatology compiles and analyzes statistical properties over long periods. Cyclogenesis is a specific process (formation/intensification of cyclones), not the entire discipline of daily weather study.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
National weather services and forecast centers are staffed by meteorologists; climate research institutes focus on climatology and long-term change.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Climatology: Averages and trends over decades or more.
• Cyclogenesis: One phenomenon, not the entire study of day-to-day weather.
• None: Incorrect because the correct term exists.

Common Pitfalls:
Using the words interchangeably. Always tie “meteorology” to short-term forecasting and analysis.

Final Answer:
meteorology