Atmospheric and Oceanic Processes Flashcard

Front

What characteristics do all western boundary currents share?

Back

They are warm, fast, and flow away from the equator.

Front

Which way do fluids get deflected in the northern hemisphere due to the Coriolis Effect?

Back

To the right

Front

What is the air doing at a high pressure in terms of motion and rotation?

Back

Sinking and rotating clockwise

Front

How does air flow between pressures?

Back

From high pressure to low pressure

Front

What happens to the temperature as you go higher into the troposphere?

Back

It decreases because the air is thinner and less able to hold heat.

Front

What air temperature holds the most moisture?

Back

Warm air

Front

Steps to lightning formation (Start at updraft)

Back

Updraft, charge separation, discharge

Front

What seasons are tornadoes most active for Michigan?

Back

Spring and summer

Front

Why is the winter not conducive to thunderstorms and tornadoes in Michigan?

Back

There is not enough moisture and instability in the air.

Front

How is a mesocyclone and tornado related?

Back

A tornado forms from a mesocyclone.