Air Pressure and Winds... NC Fifth Grade Weather

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What is air pressure?

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Air pressure is the force exerted by the weight of air above a surface. It decreases with altitude.

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What causes winds?

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Winds are caused by unequal heating of the Earth's surface, leading to differences in air pressure.

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What is a land breeze?

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A land breeze is a wind that blows from the land to the ocean, typically occurring at night when the land cools faster than the water.

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What is a sea breeze?

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A sea breeze is a wind that blows from the ocean to the land, usually occurring during the day when the land heats up faster than the water.

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What is the Gulf Stream?

Back

The Gulf Stream is a warm ocean current that flows from the Gulf of Mexico along the U.S. East Coast, influencing weather patterns.

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What are prevailing westerlies?

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Prevailing westerlies are winds that blow from the west to the east in the mid-latitudes, affecting weather in North Carolina.

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What is a high pressure system?

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A high pressure system is an area where the atmospheric pressure is higher than surrounding areas, often bringing clear and calm weather.

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What is a low pressure system?

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A low pressure system is an area where the atmospheric pressure is lower than surrounding areas, often associated with clouds and precipitation.

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What is the jet stream?

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The jet stream is a fast-flowing air current in the upper atmosphere that influences weather patterns and systems.

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What is La Niña?

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La Niña is a climate pattern characterized by cooler ocean temperatures in the Pacific, affecting global weather patterns.