Science Flashcard

Front

What is an EF5 tornado?

Back

An EF5 tornado is the most severe category on the Enhanced Fujita scale, capable of causing catastrophic damage, including the destruction of well-built houses, overturning trains, and throwing cars.

Front

What factors are hurricanes classified by?

Back

Hurricanes are classified based on wind speed, potential damage, and barometric pressure, but not lifespan.

Front

What type of thunderstorm is responsible for most significant tornadoes?

Back

The type of thunderstorm that produces nearly all significant tornadoes is the Supercell.

Front

How does a tropical storm rotate in the southern hemisphere?

Back

A tropical storm rotates clockwise in the southern hemisphere.

Front

What defines a severe thunderstorm?

Back

A severe thunderstorm is defined by producing wind gusts over 50 mph and hail stones.

Front

What is the Enhanced Fujita scale?

Back

The Enhanced Fujita scale is a scale used to classify tornadoes based on the damage they cause, ranging from EF0 (light damage) to EF5 (incredible damage).

Front

What is a Supercell thunderstorm?

Back

A Supercell thunderstorm is a highly organized thunderstorm characterized by a rotating updraft, often producing severe weather such as tornadoes.

Front

What is the difference between a hurricane and a tropical storm?

Back

A hurricane is a tropical storm with sustained winds of 74 mph or higher, while a tropical storm has winds between 39 and 73 mph.

Front

What is barometric pressure and its significance in weather?

Back

Barometric pressure is the weight of the air above us, and it plays a crucial role in weather patterns, influencing storm formation and intensity.

Front

What are the stages of a thunderstorm?

Back

The stages of a thunderstorm include the cumulus stage (building), mature stage (heavy rain and storms), and dissipating stage (weakening).