Energy & Sunlight
What is the main source of energy driving air movement?
The Sun
Which is less dense: warm air or cold air?
warm air
July
Claim: Dogs are better pets than cats.
Evidence: Dogs can be trained to play fetch.
Reasoning: This shows they can interact with people in fun, active ways.
What happens when the Sun heats the ground?
The ground warms the air above it causing warm air to rise.
What happens to air as it rises?
It expands and cools
Why are they rare in January?
Less solar radiation = colder surface = less rising air.
Claim: Pizza is the best school lunch.
Evidence: More students choose pizza than any other option in the cafeteria.
Reasoning: If most students prefer it, it must be the most popular and enjoyed.
What is "net radiation"?
The amount of sunlight energy absorbed by Earth's surface?
Why does cold air sink?
It is denser (heavier) than warm air.
What is one piece of NOAA data that supports hailstorms happening more in July?
Higher land surface temperatures in July.
Claim: Recess should be longer.
Evidence: Students come back more focused after recess.
Reasoning: This shows that extra playtime helps with learning and concentration.
Why does more sunlight reach the surface in July than January?
Because the Sun's rays hit more directly in summer.
How does air pressure change with altitude?
Air pressure decreases as altitude increases.
How does more radiation in summer affect storm clouds?
It provides more energy for strong upward air movement.
Claim: Fridays are the best day of the week.
Evidence: There’s no school the next day.
Reasoning: Having the weekend ahead makes Fridays more exciting.
How does sunlight energy transfer into the atmosphere?
Through heating of the land and water, which then transfer energy to the air.
Why does air move upward in storm clouds?
Because warm, less dense air is lifted above cooler, denser air.
Why do storms need warm, moist air to form hail?
Warm air rises and carries moisture upward, fueling tall storm clouds.
Claim: Chocolate ice cream is better than vanilla.
Evidence: Chocolate has a richer flavor and more topping options.
Reasoning: Because of this, people who like variety usually pick chocolate.