Fronts and Air Masses

Front

What is a cold front?

Back

A cold front is a boundary between a cold air mass and a warm air mass, where the cold air pushes the warm air upwards, often leading to thunderstorms.

Front

What happens at a warm front?

Back

At a warm front, warm air catches up to cold air and slides over it, typically resulting in gradual weather changes and light precipitation.

Front

What is a stationary front?

Back

A stationary front is a boundary between two air masses that are not moving, leading to prolonged periods of cloudy and rainy weather.

Front

What type of weather is associated with a cold front?

Back

Cold fronts are often associated with heavy thunderstorms or ice storms followed by a drop in temperature.

Front

What is an occluded front?

Back

An occluded front occurs when a cold front overtakes a warm front, causing two cold air masses to surround a warm air mass.

Front

What symbol represents a warm front?

Back

A warm front is represented by a line with semicircles pointing in the direction of the warm air movement.

Front

What symbol represents a cold front?

Back

A cold front is represented by a line with triangles pointing in the direction of the cold air movement.

Front

What type of air mass is typically found behind a cold front?

Back

Cold air masses are typically found behind a cold front, leading to cooler temperatures.

Front

What type of air mass is typically found behind a warm front?

Back

Warm air masses are typically found behind a warm front, leading to warmer temperatures.

Front

How does a stationary front affect weather?

Back

A stationary front can lead to extended periods of cloudy and rainy weather as neither air mass moves.