What defines the state of the atmosphere at a given time?

The state of the atmosphere at a given time is defined as weather. Weather encompasses various atmospheric conditions such as temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind speed, and atmospheric pressure that occur over a short period, typically from hours to days. This fleeting and variable nature of weather distinguishes it from climate, which refers to the long-term averages and patterns of temperature, humidity, and other atmospheric conditions over extended periods, typically 30 years or more.

Temperature and humidity are important components of weather, but they do not encompass the entire range of atmospheric conditions that can change rapidly. Therefore, understanding that weather is the term used for the specific atmospheric conditions at any moment is crucial in distinguishing it from the broader concept of climate and from specific elements like temperature and humidity.