Weather Fronts and Pressure Systems

What does an 'H' typically represent on a weather map?

• High-pressure area with generally fair weather

• Low-pressure area with stormy conditions

• Ocean current

• A hurricane system

Answer explanation

An 'H' on a weather map indicates a high-pressure area, which is associated with generally fair weather. This contrasts with 'L', which represents low-pressure areas that can bring stormy conditions.

In which direction does air move around a high-pressure system?

• Randomly

• Vertically

• Counterclockwise

• Clockwise

Answer explanation

Air moves around a high-pressure system in a clockwise direction in the Northern Hemisphere due to the Coriolis effect. This is opposite to the counterclockwise movement around low-pressure systems.

What does a blue line with points on a weather map indicate?

• Warm front

• Stationary front

• Cold front

• Ocean boundary

Answer explanation

A blue line with points on a weather map indicates a cold front, which represents the boundary where a colder air mass is replacing a warmer air mass, often leading to precipitation and changes in weather.

How does air move around a low-pressure system?

• Clockwise

• Vertically

• Diagonally

• Counterclockwise

Answer explanation

Air moves counterclockwise around a low-pressure system in the Northern Hemisphere due to the Coriolis effect. This rotation is a result of the pressure gradient force acting on the air, causing it to spiral inward.

What characterizes a stationary front?

• Two air masses next to each other with no movement

• Rapid temperature changes

• Extreme wind conditions

• Two air masses moving quickly

Answer explanation

A stationary front is characterized by two air masses that are adjacent to each other but not moving. This leads to prolonged weather conditions without significant changes, unlike rapid temperature changes or extreme winds.

What does a red line with rounded symbols represent?

• Wind direction

• Warm front

• Occluded front

• Cold front

Answer explanation

A red line with rounded symbols on a weather map represents a warm front. This indicates that warm air is moving in and replacing cooler air, which is characteristic of warm fronts.

An occluded front is indicated by what type of line?

• Blue line

• Red line

• Purple line

• Green line

Answer explanation

An occluded front is represented by a purple line on weather maps. This line indicates the merging of cold and warm fronts, distinguishing it from other types of fronts which are marked by different colors.

What typically happens when a low-pressure system begins to fade?

• Wind speeds decrease

• Temperature increases rapidly

• An occluded front forms

• Weather becomes more stable

Answer explanation

As a low-pressure system fades, it often leads to the formation of an occluded front. This occurs when a cold front overtakes a warm front, causing changes in weather patterns.

Low-pressure areas are generally associated with what type of weather?

• Extremely cold

• Perfectly calm

• Clear and sunny

• Cloudy and stormy

Answer explanation

Low-pressure areas are associated with rising air, which leads to cloud formation and precipitation. This results in cloudy and stormy weather, making it the correct choice.

Which symbol indicates the direction of air movement on a weather map?

• Pressure symbols

• Points on cold front lines

• Arrows

• Curved lines

Answer explanation

On a weather map, points on cold front lines indicate the direction of air movement. These points show where cold air is advancing, making them the correct choice for indicating air movement direction.