Air Masses and Fronts

Front

What is an air mass?

Back

An air mass is a large body of air that has uniform temperature and humidity characteristics, typically formed over a specific region.

Front

What are the four main types of air masses?

Back

The four main types of air masses are: 1) Continental Polar (cP), 2) Maritime Polar (mP), 3) Continental Tropical (cT), 4) Maritime Tropical (mT).

Front

What is a front in meteorology?

Back

A front is a boundary between two different air masses, which can lead to changes in weather.

Front

What is an occluded front?

Back

An occluded front forms when a warm air mass is caught between two cold air masses and is pushed upward.

Front

What weather is typically associated with a warm front?

Back

Warm fronts are usually associated with gradual increases in temperature and precipitation, often leading to extended periods of rain.

Front

What is a cold front?

Back

A cold front occurs when a cold air mass pushes into a warm air mass, often leading to abrupt weather changes and thunderstorms.

Front

What is the typical movement direction of a warm front?

Back

Warm fronts typically move from southwest to northeast.

Front

What type of weather is associated with a cold front?

Back

Cold fronts are often associated with thunderstorms, heavy rain, and a drop in temperature.

Front

How does a stationary front differ from other types of fronts?

Back

A stationary front occurs when two air masses meet but neither is strong enough to replace the other, leading to prolonged weather conditions.

Front

What is the significance of the jet stream in weather patterns?

Back

The jet stream is a fast-flowing air current in the atmosphere that influences weather patterns and the movement of air masses.