weather basics
What is the difference between weather and climate
Weather is short term, Climate is long term average
what tool is used to measure air pressure
barometer
What is a cold front
When cold air pushes under warm air
What type of storm has rotating columns of air
Tornado
Who studies and predicts weather
meteorologist
What are the main elements included in weather
Temperature, humidity, precipitation, cloudiness, and wind
What causes wind to form.
Uneven heating of earth's surface creates differences in air pressure, causing wind
What are air masses
large bodies of air with similar temperature and humidity
Name a key characteristic of a hurricane
winds at least 74mph, spiral shape, form over warm ocean waters
What tools do meteorologists use to forecast weather
Satellites, radar, barometers, and computer models
How does Altitude effect temperature
high alt are cooler because the air is thinner and holds less heat
What is Humidity
is the amount of water vapor in the air
What are Jet Streams
Jet streams fast moving air currents
What are the dangers of a blizzard
Blizzards bring strong winds and heavy snow leading to whiteouts
What is the main difference between El Nino and El Nina
temperature
Define relative humidity
Relative humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air compared to what it could hold Expressed as a percentage
What happens when temperature reaches the dew point
water vapor condenses into liquid forming dew or fog
What causes seasonal weather patterns
Earths tilt and orbit cause changes in sunlight thus creating seasons
What do thunderstorms produce
lighting, thunder, heavy rain, possibly hail
how does understanding weather patterns help transportation safety
Helps avoid delays, plan safe routes, respond to sever weather
Why is weather described as your mood and climate as your personality
Weather changes often like your mood, climate is long term and stable like your personality
What are the four main variables that affect weather
Temp, air pressure, wind, and humidity
How do mountains affect local weather patterns
Mountains block and lift air
How is climate change affecting severe weather
More frequent and intense storm
Name two ways climate change is altering weather patterns
More extreme weather events, shifting precipitation and temperature patterns