Exam 14: Weather Patterns and Severe Weather

Tornadoes are violent windstorms that take the form of a rotating column of air called a(n)________ that extends downward from a cumulonimbus cloud.

Examine the figure. Based on our best understand of mid-latitude cyclones, which of the four lettered interpretations best matches the weather patterns observed in the "raw" satellite image at top?

An mP air mass is ________.

A cT air mass is ________.

A tropical storm has stronger winds than a tropical depression.

Hurricanes most often develop in late winter.

Divergence aloft helps maintain surface lows.

Compare the characteristics (general weather, movement, etc.)of a cold front to a warm front. Also, briefly explain why they exhibit different characteristics.

The eye of a hurricane is ________.

Precipitation along a cold front is generally ________ intense and of ________ duration than precipitation associated with a warm front.

Which of the two tornado tracks shown in these satellite images is typical of the path taken by most tornados in the United States? Explain the "normal" pattern, and suggest a reason for the deviation seen in the other image.

When continental polar air moves over a relatively warm lake, such as the Great Lakes, the air mass acquires both heat and moisture, resulting in ________ on the land leeward of the lake.

What does hailstone size indicate about the strength of processes inside a thunderstorm?

Hurricanes are characterized by ________.

Several consecutive days of rather constant weather in an area probably indicates ________.

A large body of air that is characterized by a homogeneity of temperature and moisture at any given level is a(n)________.

Doppler radar is a useful tool for detecting tornadoes.

The boundary between air masses having different temperatures (and hence, different densities)is called a(n)________.

Examine the figure. Which of the symbols shown is used to illustrate a stationary front?

Summarize the factors that lead to the development, growth, and decay of hurricanes.