Air Masses

Front

What are air masses?

Back

Large bodies of air that have uniform temperature and humidity characteristics.

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What are the two main types of air masses?

Back

Maritime and Continental.

Front

What is a maritime air mass?

Back

An air mass that forms over water and is typically moist.

Front

What is a continental air mass?

Back

An air mass that forms over land and is typically dry.

Front

What is a polar air mass?

Back

An air mass that forms near the poles and is characterized by cold temperatures.

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What is a tropical air mass?

Back

An air mass that forms near the equator and is characterized by warm temperatures.

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How do maritime polar air masses affect weather?

Back

They bring cool, moist air, often leading to precipitation.

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How do continental tropical air masses affect weather?

Back

They bring hot, dry air, often leading to clear skies.

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What is an arctic air mass?

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A very cold air mass that forms over the Arctic region.

Front

What is the difference between polar and tropical air masses?

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Polar air masses are cold, while tropical air masses are warm.