Air Masses and Fronts 1.

What is an air mass?

• A large body of air with uniform temperature and humidity

• A small pocket of air with varying temperature and humidity

• A type of cloud formation

• A weather phenomenon caused by wind patterns

Answer explanation

An air mass is defined as a large body of air that has uniform temperature and humidity characteristics. This distinguishes it from smaller pockets of air or other weather phenomena.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Moisture content and temperature of an air mass are determined by (a)   .

• where formed

• altitude

• speed

Answer explanation

The moisture content and temperature of an air mass are primarily influenced by where it is formed. Different locations, such as over oceans or land, impart distinct characteristics to the air mass.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

Air masses usually cover many (a)   .

• square miles

• square feet

• square inches

Answer explanation

Air masses are large bodies of air that cover extensive areas, typically measured in square miles. This makes 'square miles' the correct choice, as 'square feet' and 'square inches' are too small to represent the scale of air masses.

Tags

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Air masses form when air sits over a large region for (a)   .

• days

• hours

• minutes

Answer explanation

Air masses form when air remains stationary over a region for several days, allowing it to acquire the temperature and humidity characteristics of the surface below. Thus, 'days' is the correct choice.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

Where does Maritime Tropical air form?

• Over the ocean near the equator

• Over the mountains

• Over the desert

• Over the polar regions

Answer explanation

Maritime Tropical air forms over warm ocean waters, particularly near the equator, where the heat and moisture create a humid air mass. This makes 'Over the ocean near the equator' the correct choice.

Tags

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What type of air is associated with Maritime Tropical?

• Cold, dry air

• Warm, moist air

• Hot, dry air

• Cold, moist air

Answer explanation

Maritime Tropical air is characterized by being warm and moist, as it originates over warm ocean waters. This makes 'Warm, moist air' the correct choice, distinguishing it from other air types.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

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Where do Maritime Polar air masses form in both summer and winter?

• Pacific Ocean

• Indian Ocean

• Arctic Ocean

• Atlantic Ocean

Answer explanation

Maritime Polar air masses primarily form over the Pacific Ocean in both summer and winter, where cold, moist air is generated, influencing weather patterns in coastal regions.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

What type of air is associated with Maritime Polar air masses?

• Warm, dry air

• Cold, moist air

• Hot, humid air

• Cool, dry air

Answer explanation

Maritime Polar air masses originate over cold ocean waters, leading to cold, moist air. This contrasts with warm, dry or hot, humid air, making 'Cold, moist air' the correct choice.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

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Maritime Polar air masses bring heavy snow and cold temperatures in _______.

• winter

• summer

• spring

• autumn

Answer explanation

Maritime Polar air masses are characterized by cold temperatures and moisture, leading to heavy snowfall primarily during winter months when these air masses are most prevalent.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

Where does the Continental Tropical climate form?

• Over the Atlantic Ocean

• Over Mexico and SW U.S.

• Over the Arctic

• Over the Indian Ocean

Answer explanation

The Continental Tropical climate primarily forms over Mexico and the southwestern United States, characterized by hot, dry conditions. This distinguishes it from other regions listed in the answer choices.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6