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.

Front

What are the two main characteristics that define an air mass?

Back

Temperature and water vapor content (humidity).

Front

What type of air mass is typically cold and dry?

Back

Continental polar.

Front

What type of air mass is typically warm and humid?

Back

Maritime tropical.

Front

What is a cold front?

Back

A cold front is the leading edge of a cooler air mass that replaces a warmer air mass.

Front

What symbols are used to represent a cold front on a weather map?

Back

Blue triangles pointing in the direction of the front.

Front

What is a warm front?

Back

A warm front is the leading edge of a warmer air mass that replaces a cooler air mass.

Front

What symbols are used to represent a warm front on a weather map?

Back

Red half circles pointing in the direction of the front.

Front

What happens when two different air masses meet?

Back

They do not mix; instead, they create a front.

Front

What is a stratus cloud?

Back

Stratus clouds are flat layers of clouds that cover the sky and are usually low to the ground.