Weather Basics
What drives daily weather changes?
The movement of air masses and the Sun
How do oceans influence weather and climate?
They absorb and release the Sun's energy.
What type of weather is associated with low pressure?
Stormy and rainy weather.
What does a warm front symbol on a weather map indicate?
Warmer air moving in, often bringing rain.
What causes hurricanes to form?
Warm ocean water fueling storm systems.
What does direct sunlight do to the hydrosphere at the equator?
Provides more thermal energy, making the water warmer
What is the Gulf Stream's effect on Florida's east coast?
What kind of front brings sudden temperature drops and storms?
Cold front
If a cold front is approaching, what weather should be expected?
Cooler temperatures and possible storms.
What happens when cold and warm air masses collide?
Storms or severe weather form, depending on conditions.
What type of climate do coastal areas typically experience?
Moderate temperatures with more precipitation
What happens to air temperature over land vs. water during the day?
Land warms faster than water, creating breezes
How do high-pressure systems affect weather?
What can cities near a low-pressure system expect?
Cloud, rainy, or stormy weather
What factor strengthens a hurricane?
Warm ocean water and low wind shear
What causes local wind changes between land and water?
Land absorbs heat differently than water, causing temperature differences.
Why do ocean currents affect global climate?
They transport heat around the world.
What happens when a warm front moves into the area?
Warmer temperatures and possible rain.
What three factors influence weather the most?
Temperature, air pressure, and moisture
What causes tornadoes to form in Tornado Alley?
Warm, moist air from the Gulf colliding with cold, dry air from the Rockies.
How does the jet stream influence local weather?
It moves air masses, influencing temperature and precipitation patterns.
What is the role of deep-water ocean currents in climate?
They help regulate Earth's temperature by circulating cold and warm water.
How do pressure systems affect weather changes over time?
High pressure leads to stable weather, while low pressure brings storms.
How do meteorologists predict weather changes using jet streams?
They track the movement of jet streams to forecast shifts in temperature and precipitation.
Why do some regions experience more extreme weathers than others?
Geographic locations, ocean currents, and prevailing winds influence weather patterns.