Flashcardziz P.S. 2 Ch. 17: Weather & Climate

Front

What is latent heat?

Back

Latent heat is the heat energy released or absorbed during a phase change of a substance, such as when precipitation forms as rain or snow.

Front

What is a jet stream?

Back

A jet stream is a fast stream of air located high in the troposphere that influences weather patterns and processes.

Front

What gas has the highest percentage in our atmosphere?

Back

Nitrogen is the gas that makes up the highest percentage of the Earth's atmosphere, accounting for about 78%.

Front

What is a lee-rain shadow?

Back

A lee-rain shadow is a dry area on the leeward side of a mountain where precipitation is significantly reduced, often resulting in arid conditions.

Front

What does a climate classification system divide regions by?

Back

A climate classification system divides regions according to temperature, amount of precipitation, and the types of plants found there.

Front

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Back

Weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions, while climate is the long-term average of weather patterns in a specific area.

Front

What is a cold front?

Back

A cold front is the leading edge of a cooler mass of air that replaces a warmer mass, often resulting in precipitation and storms.

Front

What is a warm front?

Back

A warm front is the boundary where a warm air mass replaces a cooler air mass, typically leading to gradual weather changes and light precipitation.

Front

What are cumulonimbus clouds?

Back

Cumulonimbus clouds are towering clouds associated with thunderstorms, capable of producing heavy rain, lightning, and severe weather.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap heat, keeping the planet warm enough to support life.