Understanding Weather Fronts and Air Masses

Front

What are cirrus clouds?

Back

Cirrus clouds are thin, wispy clouds that usually indicate fair weather.

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 is a cold front?

Back

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

Front

What happens when a cold front moves?

Back

As a cold front moves, the colder, more dense air moves below the warmer air, causing storms.

Front

What is a low-pressure system?

Back

A low-pressure system is an area where the atmospheric pressure is lower than that of surrounding areas, often associated with cloudy and rainy weather.

Front

What type of weather is associated with high-pressure systems?

Back

High-pressure systems are generally associated with clear skies and fair weather.

Front

What is the difference between maritime and continental air masses?

Back

Maritime air masses form over oceans and are humid, while continental air masses form over land and are dry.

Front

What type of air mass is responsible for cold weather in winter?

Back

Continental Polar air masses are responsible for cold weather that travels from Canada to the United States.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process by which water vapor in the air cools and changes into liquid water, forming clouds.

Front

How do air masses move?

Back

Air masses move from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure.