Weather and Natural Phenomena

Which layer of the Earth's atmosphere is closest to the ground and is where almost all weather occurs?

• Stratosphere

• Mesosphere

• Troposphere

• Thermosphere

What is the primary energy source that drives the water cycle?

• Geothermal heat

• The Sun

• The Moon's gravity

• Wind currents

Which instrument is used to measure atmospheric pressure?

• Anemometer

• Thermometer

• Barometer

• Hygrometer

What creates the sound of thunder?

• Clouds colliding together

• Rapid expansion of air heated by lightning

• Rain hitting the ground very hard

• Wind breaking the sound barrier

Which type of cloud is tall, dense, and typically produces thunderstorms and severe weather?

• Stratus

• Cirrus

• Cumulonimbus

• Altocumulus

What is the name of the calm, clear area at the center of a hurricane?

• The Wall

• The Eye

• The Vortex

• The Core

In the water cycle, what is the process called when plants release water vapor into the atmosphere?

• Transpiration

• Condensation

• Precipitation

• Sublimation

What causes the wind to blow?

• The rotation of the moon

• Differences in air pressure

• Ocean currents

• Earth's magnetic field

Which gas makes up the majority (about 78%) of Earth's atmosphere?

• Oxygen

• Carbon Dioxide

• Nitrogen

• Argon

Which scale is used to measure the intensity and damage of a tornado?

• Richter Scale

• Saffir-Simpson Scale

• Enhanced Fujita (EF) Scale

• Beaufort Scale