Air Masses

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 that forms over land?

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 over 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 makes 'Cold' the correct choice, as polar air masses are typically much cooler than those formed in warmer areas.

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 their moisture content, as they gain humidity from the water surface. Other types like continental, polar, and tropical refer to different origins.

Front

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

Back

Dry and warm

Answer explanation

A continental tropical air mass is characterized by being dry and warm. It originates over land in tropical 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

A wet and cold air mass would be a...

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. In contrast, continental polar is dry and cold, while tropical types are warm.

Front

A dry and cold air mass would be...

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, making it cold and dry, unlike maritime polar, which is moist.

Front

A dry and hot air mass would be...

Back

Continental tropical

Answer explanation

A dry and hot air mass is classified as 'continental tropical' because it originates over land (continental) and is warm (tropical), unlike maritime air masses which are moist.