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 four main types of fronts?

Back

The four main types of fronts are cold fronts, warm fronts, stationary fronts, and occluded fronts.

Front

What happens during a cold front?

Back

A cold front occurs when a cold air mass pushes a warmer air mass up rapidly, often leading to storms.

Front

What is a warm front?

Back

A warm front occurs when a warm air mass meets a colder air mass and rises over it, usually bringing gentle rain.

Front

What is a stationary front?

Back

A stationary front is when two air masses meet and neither is strong enough to replace the other, leading to prolonged weather conditions.

Front

What is an occluded front?

Back

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

Front

How does a cold front affect weather?

Back

Cold fronts can cause sudden temperature drops, thunderstorms, and heavy rain.

Front

What type of weather is associated with warm fronts?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of pressure systems on a weather map?

Back

Pressure systems indicate areas of high or low pressure, which influence weather patterns and conditions.

Front

What type of front is typically found near Seattle?

Back

A cold front is typically found near Seattle.