Section 1: Understanding the Skies

What type of cloud is typically associated with thunderstorms and can be identified by its anvil shape?

• Cirrus

• Cumulonimbus

• Stratus

• Cumulus

Which weather pattern is characterized by a long-term reversal of wind and sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean?

• El Niño

• Monsoon

• Jet Stream

• Gulf Stream

What instrument is used to measure atmospheric pressure?

• Anemometer

• Barometer

• Hygrometer

• Thermometer

Which climate zone is characterized by low precipitation and extreme temperatures?

• Tropical

• Temperate

• Polar

• Desert

What is the primary purpose of a wind vane?

• To measure wind speed

• To measure air pressure

• To indicate wind direction

• To measure humidity

Which type of cloud is thin, wispy, and found at high altitudes?

• Cumulus

• Stratus

• Cirrus

• Nimbus

What is the term for the boundary between two different air masses that significantly affects the weather?

• Isobar

• Front

• Trough

• Ridge

In which climate zone does the majority of the world's deserts occur?

• Subtropical

• Temperate

• Subarctic

• Tropical

What weather instrument measures wind speed?

• Barometer

• Anemometer

• Pyranometer

• Rain gauge

How can heavy rainfall affect the environment?

• It can lead to droughts.

• It can cause soil erosion.

• It can increase desertification.

• It can result in a decrease in plant growth.