# Viewing horizontal temperature distribution

>  NOTE: This guide can also be applied to the visualization of any scalar field on horizontal planes.

![](img/4-1-horizontal-scalar-field.png)

##### 1. Open data file.

Open your data file(s), using buttons on the **_Menu Bar_**

##### 2. Load the temperature variable and show it on a layer.

You can either (1) click the _Add Layer_ menu buttons on _Layer_ menu category, and select variable / area / height level etc., or (2) select the temperature variable on the _Variables Pane_, and click 'OK' to add layer.

##### 3. Change the settings for color mapping (if necessary).

##### 4. Change the visualization settings - contour vs. raster (if necessary).

##### 5. Explore temperature distributions at different altitudes (if any).


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