Mid-Latitude Atmospheric Dynamics: A First Course provides an introduction to the physical and mathematical description of mid-latitude atmospheric dynamics and its application to the diagnosis of extratropical cyclones. Requring a background in physics and calculus but no prior knowledge of meteorology, this student-friendly text places the emphasis on conceptual understanding. Written in a conversation tone, this text is an ideal companion for a first course on the subject, delving into greater depth as the book, and the student, progresses. Real weather examples are woven through the more mathematically focused early chapters, while later chapters introduce a range of case-studies from the around the globe to illustrate theoretical and phenomenological aspects of the mid-latitude cyclone life cycle. * features end of chapter bibliography and problems * takes a conceptual building block approach * includes numerous real weather examples from around the globe