8th Grade Weather and Earth Science Terms

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Air mass

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A body of air that has about the same temperature and humidity throughout.

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Atmosphere

Back

An envelope of mixed gases held to the Earth by gravity; the most dense gases are near the surface of the Earth.

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Climate

Back

The long-term pattern of weather in an area.

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Convection current

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When temperature differences cause liquids and gases (fluids) to expand and move; the less dense areas continually rise; the more dense areas continually sink, creating a cyclical current.

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Coriolis effect

Back

The effect of the Earth’s rotation on the path of air and water; causes the path to curve.

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Hydrosphere

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The ice, water vapor, and liquid water in the atmosphere, including oceans, lakes, streams, soils, and groundwater.

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Weather

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The condition of the atmosphere at a place for a short period of time, including humidity, cloud cover, temperature, wind, and precipitation.