United States Air Masses & Fronts Quiz
Continental polar, maritime tropical, jet stream (10 questions).
United States Air Masses & Fronts Quiz: Quick Study Notes
Understanding air masses and fronts is crucial for interpreting weather patterns in the United States. This quiz covers the characteristics of major air masses like Continental Polar and Maritime Tropical, the dynamics of weather fronts, and the steering influence of the Jet Stream.
Cold, dry air originating from Canada or Alaska. It brings distinct winter chills and dry summer days to the US.
Warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic. It is the primary source of precipitation in the eastern US.
Boundaries separating air masses of different densities. Includes Cold, Warm, Stationary, and Occluded fronts.
A narrow band of strong winds in the upper atmosphere that acts as a steering current for storms across the continent.
Key Takeaways
- Air masses are classified by source region: Land (Continental/Dry) vs. Water (Maritime/Moist) and Latitude (Tropical/Warm vs. Polar/Cold).
- Cold fronts generally move faster than warm fronts and can trigger severe thunderstorms.
- The “Dryline” separates moist mT air from dry cT air and is a frequent location for severe weather in the Southern Plains.
- Lake-effect snow is generated when cold cP air gathers moisture while passing over warmer lake waters.
- Stationary fronts occur when airflow is parallel to the front line, often causing prolonged wet weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between maritime and continental air masses?
Maritime air masses form over oceans and are moist, while continental air masses form over large landmasses and are generally dry.
How does the Jet Stream affect US weather?
The Jet Stream steers high and low-pressure systems west to east. Its position determines the boundary between cold polar air to the north and warm tropical air to the south.
What weather usually follows the passage of a cold front?
After a cold front passes, winds typically shift to the northwest, temperatures drop, humidity decreases, and skies often clear.
Where do Continental Tropical (cT) air masses come from?
They originate over the deserts of the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico, primarily during the summer, bringing hot and dry conditions.
What is an occluded front?
An occluded front forms when a fast-moving cold front overtakes a slower warm front, lifting the warm air mass entirely off the ground.
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