Air Masses

Front

How do we name air masses?

Back

Humidity and temperature

Answer explanation

Air masses are named based on their humidity and temperature characteristics. This classification helps in understanding their origin and the weather patterns they may bring.

Front

How do we characterize an air mass that forms over the ocean?

Back

Wet

Answer explanation

An air mass that forms over the ocean is characterized as wet because it absorbs moisture from the water surface. This moisture content distinguishes it from air masses that form over land, which are typically dry.

Front

How do we characterize an air mass forming over a large desert?

Back

Dry

Answer explanation

An air mass that forms over land is characterized as dry because it originates from land surfaces, which do not provide moisture like bodies of water do. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Dry'.

Front

How do we characterize an air mass that forms near the equator?

Back

Warm

Answer explanation

An air mass that forms near the equator is characterized as warm due to the intense solar heating in that region. This results in higher temperatures, making 'Warm' the correct choice.

Front

How do we characterize an air mass that forms near the poles?

Back

Cold

Answer explanation

An air mass that forms near the poles is characterized as cold due to the low temperatures in these regions. This contrasts with air masses formed in warmer areas, which are typically warm.

Front

What types of air masses form over oceans?

Back

Maritime

Answer explanation

Air masses that form over oceans are called maritime air masses. They are characterized by high humidity due to the moisture from the ocean. Continental air masses, on the other hand, form over land and are typically drier.

Front

Ava and Mason are planning a trip to a desert region. What's the humidity and temperature of a continental tropical air mass they might experience?

Back

Dry and warm

Answer explanation

A continental tropical air mass is characterized by being dry and warm. It originates over land in warm regions, leading to low humidity and high temperatures, making 'Dry and warm' the correct choice.

Front

What's the humidity and temperature of a maritime tropical air mass?

Back

Wet and warm

Answer explanation

A maritime tropical air mass is characterized by being both wet and warm due to its origin over warm ocean waters, which leads to high humidity and elevated temperatures.

Front

Emma is planning a trip to a coastal region known for its wet and cold climate. What type of air mass is she likely to encounter?

Back

Maritime polar

Answer explanation

A wet and cold air mass is classified as maritime polar, as it originates over cold ocean waters, bringing moisture and cooler temperatures. The other options do not fit this description.

Front

Benjamin is studying weather patterns and observes a dry and cold air mass. This air mass would be...
Options: Maritime polar, Continental polar, Maritime tropical, Continental tropical

Back

Continental polar

Answer explanation

A dry and cold air mass is classified as Continental polar. This type of air mass originates over land in polar regions, leading to cold and dry conditions, unlike Maritime polar, which is moist.