Air Masses and Fronts ESS 5.1.2

Front

What is an air mass?

Back

An air mass is a large body of air that has similar temperature and humidity characteristics throughout.

Front

What are the two main types of air masses?

Back

Continental (dry) and Maritime (wet).

Front

What is a cold front?

Back

A cold front is the leading edge of a cooler mass of air, replacing a warmer mass of air.

Front

What is a warm front?

Back

A warm front is the leading edge of a warmer mass of air, replacing a cooler mass of air.

Front

What is a stationary front?

Back

A stationary front occurs when two air masses meet but neither is strong enough to replace the other.

Front

What is an occluded front?

Back

An occluded front forms when a cold front overtakes a warm front, lifting the warm air off the ground.

Front

How do air masses affect weather?

Back

Air masses influence temperature, humidity, and precipitation in an area.

Front

What happens when two different air masses collide?

Back

A front forms, leading to changes in weather conditions.

Front

What type of weather is associated with a warm front?

Back

Warm fronts typically bring gradual increases in temperature and prolonged precipitation.

Front

What type of weather is associated with a cold front?

Back

Cold fronts often bring sudden temperature drops and short, intense storms.