Air Masses and Fronts ESS 5.1.2

Front

What is an air mass?

Back

An air mass is a large body of air that has similar temperature and humidity characteristics throughout.

Front

What are the two main types of air masses?

Back

The two main types of air masses are continental (dry) and maritime (moist).

Front

What is a continental tropical air mass?

Back

A continental tropical air mass is a dry and warm air mass that forms over land in warm regions.

Front

What is a maritime tropical air mass?

Back

A maritime tropical air mass is a moist and warm air mass that forms over warm ocean waters.

Front

What is a polar air mass?

Back

A polar air mass is a cold air mass that forms near the poles.

Front

What happens when a cold front approaches?

Back

When a cold front approaches, warm air rises, cools, and can cause rain and thunderstorms.

Front

What is a warm front?

Back

A warm front occurs when warm air moves over cold air, leading to gradual temperature increases and light precipitation.

Front

What is a stationary front?

Back

A stationary front occurs when two air masses meet but neither is strong enough to replace the other.

Front

What is an occluded front?

Back

An occluded front occurs when a cold front overtakes a warm front, causing complex weather patterns.

Front

What is humidity?

Back

Humidity is the amount of water vapor present in the air.