What does the airborne weather radar primarily detect?

The airborne weather radar primarily detects precipitation drops. This is because its primary function is to observe and measure the intensity, distribution, and movement of precipitation within the atmosphere. By sending out radio waves and interpreting the echoes that bounce back from various hydrometeors, such as raindrops, snowflakes, and other forms of precipitation, the radar can provide valuable information about weather conditions.

In contrast, while cloud droplets, temperature variations, and wind direction are significant factors in meteorology, they are not directly measured by airborne weather radar. Cloud droplets are too small to be effectively detected by this technology, and though some radar systems can infer temperature variations through the effects they have on precipitation, it is not a primary detection capability. Wind direction is usually determined through other instruments and methods, such as anemometers or weather balloons, rather than radar systems focused on precipitation.