Thunderstorms

What type of cloud is most commonly associated with thunderstorms?

• Stratus cloud

• Cumulonimbus cloud

• Cirrus cloud

• Altostratus cloud

Answer explanation

Cumulonimbus clouds are towering clouds associated with thunderstorms, characterized by their vertical development and ability to produce severe weather, including heavy rain, lightning, and tornadoes.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

What type of front is more commonly associated with thunderstorm formation?

• Cold

• Warm

• Stationary

• Occluded

Answer explanation

Drought is not a danger associated with thunderstorms. Instead, thunderstorms can cause flooding, lightning strikes, and hail, all of which pose significant risks during such weather events.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

What is the main reason for the formation of hail during a thunderstorm?

• Strong updrafts within the cumulonimbus cloud

• Snow

• Low atmospheric pressure

• High humidity

Answer explanation

Hail forms during thunderstorms primarily due to strong updrafts within cumulonimbus clouds. These updrafts carry water droplets upward where they freeze, creating hailstones that grow larger before falling.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

Which of the following is a common safety measure during a thunderstorm?

• Standing near windows

• Taking a shower

• Using electrical appliances

• Staying indoors away from windows

Answer explanation

Staying indoors away from windows is crucial during a thunderstorm to avoid injury from lightning strikes or flying debris. The other options increase risk and are not safe practices.

Fill in the blank: Thunderstorms can be accompanied by heavy rain, thunder, and ____.

• Hail

• Snow

• Lightning

• Fog

Answer explanation

Thunderstorms are characterized by heavy rain, thunder, and lightning. Lightning is a common phenomenon during these storms, making it the correct choice to fill in the blank.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

This diagram shows the formation and structure of a thunderstorm. By looking at this picture, you can tell thunderstorms are caused by

• conduction in the atmosphere

• convection in the atmosphere

• radiation in the atmosphere

• strong winds and rain clouds

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

Analyze the role of wind shear in the formation of severe thunderstorms. Which statement best describes this relationship?

• Wind shear is irrelevant to the formation of thunderstorms.

• Strong wind shear weakens thunderstorms by dispersing their energy.

• Moderate wind shear is conducive to the formation of severe thunderstorms by creating rotation.

• Wind shear has a cooling effect that prevents the formation of thunderstorms.

Tags

DOK Level 3: Strategic Thinking

What is the main danger of lightning during a thunderstorm?

• It can cause fires

• It can cool the air

• It can water plants

• It can create rainbows.

Answer explanation

The main danger of lightning during a thunderstorm is that it can cause fires. Lightning strikes can ignite flammable materials, leading to wildfires or structural fires, making this a significant hazard.

If you saw lightning and heard thunder 15 seconds later...How far away is the storm?

• 1 mile

• 3 miles

• 5 miles

• 15 miles

Answer explanation

Water vapor plays a crucial role in thunderstorm formation by condensing into tiny droplets. These droplets collide and grow, leading to the development of clouds and precipitation, which are essential for thunderstorms.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

What should you do to avoid being struck by lightning?

• Seek shelter

• Stand under a tree

• Swim in a pool

• Fly a kite

Answer explanation

To avoid being struck by lightning, the best option is to seek shelter indoors or in a sturdy building. Standing under a tree, swimming in a pool, or flying a kite increases the risk of lightning strikes.