Meteorlogy Flashcards
(340 cards)
1
Q
What provides the energy for all weather activity?
A
The sun as electromagnetic radiation
2
Q
In what form does solar energy reach Earth?
A
Short-wave radiation
3
Q
What are the albedo values for snow?
A
80%
4
Q
What is the albedo value for sea ice?
A
40%
5
Q
What is the albedo value for deserts?
A
30%
6
Q
What is the albedo value for arable land?
A
20%
7
Q
What is the albedo value for grass?
A
15%
8
Q
What is the albedo value for forests and water?
A
10%
9
Q
What does the electromagnetic spectrum include?
A
Radio, Microwave, Infrared, Visible, Ultraviolet, X-Ray, Gamma Ray
10
Q
What is the approximate equivalent size of a virus?
A
10^-12 metres
11
Q
What is the wavelength range for visible light in nanometres?
A
Approximately between 700 and 400 nanometres
12
Q
What percentage of short-wave radiation is reflected or absorbed by the atmosphere?
A
About half
13
Q
What is the global average temperature of Earth’s surface without the greenhouse effect?
A
-18°C
14
Q
What is the average temperature on Earth’s surface due to the greenhouse effect?
A
Around 15°C
15
Q
Which gases contribute to the natural greenhouse effect?
A
Water vapour (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4)
16
Q
What causes the uneven distribution of incoming short-wave radiation across the globe?
A
Spherical shape, rotation, axial tilt, and Earth’s orbit around the sun
17
Q
Fill in the blank: The Earth’s surface radiates energy to space in the form of _______ radiation.
A
long-wave heat
18
Q
True or False: The angles of incoming radiation are the same around the world.
A
False
19
Q
What makes life on Earth possible?
A
The greenhouse effect
The greenhouse effect traps heat in the atmosphere, allowing for a stable climate.
20
Q
What are the most important greenhouse gases?
A
- CO₂
- CH₄
- N₂O
- O₃
These gases contribute significantly to the greenhouse effect.
21
Q
What is the average temperature on Earth without the greenhouse effect?
A
-18 °C
The current average temperature is approximately 15 °C, indicating a significant warming effect due to greenhouse gases.
22
Q
What is the current average temperature on Earth due to the greenhouse effect?
A
15 °C
The greenhouse effect raises the average temperature to 15 °C from -18 °C.
23
Q
What temperature does the greenhouse effect raise Earth to?
A
33 °C
This is the theoretical average temperature with the greenhouse effect considered.
24
Q
Fill in the blank: The greenhouse effect raises Earth’s temperature from _______ to 33 °C.
A
15 °C
25
What does the albedo effect refer to?
The reflectivity of a surface
## Footnote
Low albedo surfaces absorb more sunlight, while high albedo surfaces reflect more sunlight.
26
True or False: The albedo effect indicates that glaciers absorb more sunlight than they reflect.
False
## Footnote
Glaciers have a high albedo and reflect more sunlight than they absorb.
27
How many solar rays reach the equator during the equinox according to the illustration?
5 rays
## Footnote
This is a qualitative measure based on the number of arriving solar rays.
28
What is the impact of a low albedo effect?
Absorbs more sunlight than it reflects
## Footnote
This can lead to increased heating of the surface.
29
What is the temperature increase contributed by the greenhouse effect?
33.0 °C - 15 °C = 18 °C
## Footnote
This calculation shows the warming influence of greenhouse gases.
30
What is the significance of the illustration in Task 1 regarding solar energy?
It qualitatively shows energy received by Earth's surface
## Footnote
The number of solar rays indicates the amount of energy received.
31
What is the total amount of incoming solar radiation received at the outer edge of the atmosphere?
340.4 units
## Footnote
This value is calculated from the solar constant, which averages approximately 1367 W/m².
32
What percentage of total insolation is reflected or scattered back into space?
22.9 units
33
How much incoming solar radiation is absorbed by the atmosphere?
77.0 units
34
What is the total outgoing infrared radiation from Earth?
239.9 units
35
What is the net gain of energy received by the atmosphere from greenhouse gases?
398.2 units
36
What process transfers energy from Earth's surface to the atmosphere via water vapor?
Latent heat transport
37
How many units of energy are conducted from Earth's surface back into the atmosphere?
18.4 units
38
What portion of longwave radiation emitted by Earth's surface is transmitted directly through the atmosphere?
Approximately 40.1 units
39
Fill in the blank: The annual balance between incoming and outgoing radiation is the _______.
global energy budget
40
True or False: The atmosphere is warmed directly by the Sun.
False
41
What is the range of wavelengths of longwave radiation that transmits through the atmospheric window?
Between about 8 and 12 micrometers
42
How much energy is utilized in evaporating water from oceans, lakes, and other bodies of water?
Approximately 163.3 units
43
What happens to the energy absorbed by greenhouse gases?
It is radiated back to the surface
44
What is the primary method through which the surface of Earth warms the atmosphere?
Convection
45
How much energy is absorbed as latent heat stored in water vapor?
Approximately 63.6 units
46
Fill in the blank: The energy balance is almost zero because it must settle at a value in the long term, provided the _______ conditions are stable.
astrophysical
47
What is the axial tilt of the Earth?
23.5°
48
What are two effects that result from the axial tilt and Earth's revolution?
Seasonal configuration of Earth & Sun, varying daylight hours.
49
What phenomenon occurs at the North Pole during summer?
24 hours of daylight.
50
What phenomenon occurs at the North Pole during winter?
24 hours of darkness.
51
What is the term for the longest day of the year?
Summer solstice.
52
What is the term for the shortest day of the year?
Winter solstice.
53
What do we call the point in time when day and night are of equal length?
Equinox.
54
Fill in the blank: Different latitudes on Earth receive different amounts of sunlight, which is a key factor in determining a region's _______.
[climate]
55
What happens to sunlight at higher latitudes?
The angle of the sun's rays is lower, spreading the rays over a larger area.
56
How do higher latitudes compare to lower latitudes in terms of heat received?
Higher latitudes receive less heat than lower latitudes.
57
What is the term for the phenomenon where a location receives sunlight for 24 hours a day for up to half a year?
Polar day.
58
What is the term for the phenomenon where a location experiences darkness for up to half a year?
Polar night.
59
At what latitudes does the Sun reach its zenith twice a year?
Tropics (<23.5°).
60
What type of regions experience four distinct seasons?
Temperate regions (23.5° - 66.5°).
61
What are the daylight hours in Oberwil?
9 hours 56 minutes.
62
What are the daylight hours in Kiruna, Sweden?
6 hours 59 minutes.
63
What are the daylight hours in Saana?
6 hours 49 minutes.
64
What are the daylight hours in Bern, Switzerland?
8 hours 59 minutes.
65
What is the relationship between the angle of incidence of the sun's rays and the amount of solar energy absorbed by Earth's surface?
The amount of solar energy absorbed depends on the angle of incidence of the sun's rays.
66
How do land masses and water masses differ in terms of heat conduction and heat capacity?
Land masses are poor heat conductors, while water has a high heat capacity and is somewhat transparent.
67
What happens to air temperature as altitude increases in the troposphere?
Air temperature decreases on average by 6°C/km with increasing altitude.
68
Where is air temperature typically measured?
Air temperature is measured 2m above ground in shaded and well-ventilated places.
69
What effect does latitude have on mean annual temperature?
The further away a place is from the equator, the lower its mean annual temperature.
70
Fill in the blank: The higher the ________, the higher the air temperature.
[sun's angle]
71
How do altitude and air pressure relate?
At higher altitudes, there are lesser air pressures; air is thinner.
72
What is the effect of aspect on temperature?
Southern-facing slopes melt faster than northern-facing slopes due to more exposure to sunlight.
73
What is continentality in relation to temperature fluctuations?
Temperature fluctuations near the sea are smaller than inland due to moderating effects of air masses from the ocean.
74
How do ocean currents affect coastal temperatures?
Ocean currents moderate temperatures; areas closer to large bodies of water experience less fluctuation in temperature.
75
What is the effect of cloud cover on solar energy absorption during the day and night?
During the day, clouds reflect short-wave radiation, reducing solar energy reaching the surface; at night, some long-wave radiation is reflected back to the ground.
76
True or False: The time of day affects the intensity of solar heating.
True
77
What is the troposphere?
The first 5-20km of the atmosphere where weather takes place.
78
Define insolation.
Insolation refers to the solar radiation energy received on a given surface area during a given time.
79
What is the atmosphere?
A layer of air surrounding Earth
80
What is the composition of the troposphere?
Essentially uniform, except for water vapor content
81
In which layer does weather mainly take place?
Troposphere
82
How high is the troposphere?
10-15 kilometers
83
What is the role of the layers above the troposphere?
Act as a protective layer against UV radiation
84
Where is most harmful UV radiation absorbed?
Stratosphere
85
What significant feature is located in the stratosphere?
Ozone layer
86
Fill in the blank: The atmosphere is made up of various _______.
gases
87
True or False: The composition of the atmosphere varies greatly in the troposphere.
False
88
What is the significance of the ozone layer?
Absorbs and converts harmful UV radiation into heat
89
What is the pressure at the mesopause?
0.01 hPa
90
What temperature range is found in the troposphere?
-80° to 40° Celsius
91
What is the upper boundary of the ozone layer called?
Stratopause
92
What happens to UV radiation in the stratosphere?
It is absorbed
93
What is the pressure at the tropopause?
100 hPa
94
What is the temperature at the tropopause?
0° Celsius
95
What is the definition of the term 'Atmosphere'?
The Earth's air envelope that participates in Earth's rotation
## Footnote
Derived from Greek ('atmos' meaning vapor and 'sphaira' meaning sphere)
96
What is the primary composition of today's atmosphere?
* Nitrogen (78%)
* Oxygen (21%)
* Argon (0.93%)
* Carbon dioxide (<0.5%)
## Footnote
Trace gases are measured in millionths of volume (ppm)
97
Which gas is significantly more common in the stratosphere compared to other layers?
Ozone
98
At what altitude is the tropopause located above Switzerland?
10 km
99
Explain the temperature changes in the troposphere.
Temperature decreases with altitude
100
Explain the temperature changes in the stratosphere.
Temperature increases with altitude
101
What are the main layers of the atmosphere?
* Troposphere
* Stratosphere
* Mesosphere
* Thermosphere
## Footnote
Includes specific layers like stratopause and mesopause
102
What is the temperature range in the troposphere?
10°C to -60°C
103
What is the temperature range in the stratosphere?
-60°C to 0°C
104
At what altitudes does the mesosphere extend?
50 km to 80 km
105
At what altitudes does the thermosphere extend?
80 km to 100 km
106
What are greenhouse gases?
* Carbon dioxide (CO2)
* Methane (CH4)
* Water vapor
## Footnote
They reflect heat
107
True or False: The mixing ratio of gases in the atmosphere varies significantly with height.
False
108
What are trace gases?
* Noble gases (Ne, He, Kr, Xe)
* Hydrogen (H2)
* Carbon monoxide (CO)
* Hydrogen sulfide (H2S)
* Ozone (O3)
## Footnote
Typically measured in parts per million (ppm)
109
Fill in the blank: The _______ layer is the upper layer of the ozone layer.
Stratosphere
110
What characterizes the thermosphere?
Absorbs more ultraviolet rays
111
What happens to air temperature as altitude increases in the troposphere?
It becomes colder
112
What happens to air temperature as altitude increases in the stratosphere?
It warms up
113
What is the lowest layer of the atmosphere?
Troposphere
## Footnote
The troposphere is where all weather events occur and contains 75% of the atmosphere's total mass.
114
What does the term 'troposphere' mean?
'Change' in reference to weather
## Footnote
Derived from the Latin word 'tropos'.
115
How does the altitude affect air temperature in the troposphere?
Decreases by 5-6°C per km
## Footnote
This temperature decrease contributes to the condensation of water vapor.
116
What is the height of the troposphere in tropical regions?
Up to 18 km
## Footnote
The temperature at this height is approximately -55°C.
117
What is the height of the troposphere over the poles?
Up to 8 km
## Footnote
The temperature at this height is approximately -85°C.
118
What is the second layer of the atmosphere called?
Stratosphere
## Footnote
The term 'stratosphere' comes from the Latin word 'stratum', meaning 'cover'.
119
What significant feature is found in the stratosphere at about 25 km?
Ozone layer
## Footnote
The ozone layer contains larger amounts of ozone (O3) and protects life on Earth by absorbing UV radiation.
120
What is the primary function of ozone in the atmosphere?
Absorbs high-energy ultraviolet radiation
## Footnote
This absorption shields life on Earth from dangerous radiation.
121
What temperature change occurs in the stratosphere?
Temperature increases with altitude
## Footnote
This is due to the absorption of UV radiation by ozone.
122
What separates the stratosphere from the mesosphere?
Stratopause
## Footnote
The stratopause marks the boundary between these two layers.
123
What is a key characteristic of the mesosphere?
Temperature decreases with altitude
## Footnote
The mesosphere contains little to no ozone.
124
What separates the mesosphere from the thermosphere?
Mesopause
## Footnote
The mesopause marks the boundary between these two layers.
125
What happens to air molecules in the thermosphere?
Disperse into space
## Footnote
Earth's gravity can no longer hold them at high altitudes.
126
What can temperatures in the thermosphere exceed?
1500°C
## Footnote
These temperatures reflect the high kinetic energy of gas molecules.
127
Name the four most important components of the atmosphere by volume.
Nitrogen, Oxygen, Argon, Carbon Dioxide
## Footnote
* Nitrogen: 78%
* Oxygen: 21%
* Argon: 0.93%
* Carbon Dioxide: 0.04%
128
True or False: The atmosphere's layer boundaries are called pauses.
True
## Footnote
These boundaries separate different atmospheric layers.
129
What is the primary health concern associated with UV radiation in Switzerland?
Malignant melanoma
## Footnote
About 2,400 people contract malignant melanoma each year in Switzerland.
130
What are the main causes of skin cancer?
Repeated sunburns and strong exposure to UV light
## Footnote
This is especially relevant in southern countries and mountainous regions.
131
How does snow and water affect UV exposure?
They intensify the effect of UV rays due to high reflection
## Footnote
This increases the risk of skin cancer.
132
What environmental issue was discovered in the 1980s regarding the ozone layer?
Ozone depletion over the South Pole and North Pole
## Footnote
This leads to increased carcinogenic UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface.
133
What are CFCs and their role in ozone depletion?
Chlorofluorocarbons used as refrigerants and propellants
## Footnote
CFCs break down in the stratosphere, releasing chlorine that reacts with ozone.
134
What happens to CFCs when they reach the stratosphere?
They are broken down by ultraviolet radiation, releasing chlorine
## Footnote
The chlorine then reacts with ozone, contributing to its depletion.
135
What is the chemical reaction that occurs when chlorine reacts with ozone?
Chlorine reacts with ozone to form chlorine monoxide (ClO) and O2
## Footnote
ClO can further react with another oxygen atom, releasing chlorine to continue the cycle.
136
What international treaty was established to address ozone depletion?
Montreal Protocol
## Footnote
Ratified in 1987, it was supported by major producers of ozone-depleting substances.
137
What was significant about the Antarctic ozone hole observed in 2006?
It was the largest ozone hole recorded
## Footnote
Since then, ozone loss appears to be stabilizing.
138
True or False: The ozone hole is related to climate change.
False
## Footnote
The ozone hole has distinct causes and effects compared to climate change.
139
What is the composition of clean air?
Mostly N2 (78%) and O2 (21%)
## Footnote
This composition can change with pollutants like NOx and VOCs.
140
How is tropospheric ozone formed?
Through the reaction of NOx and VOCs in sunlight
## Footnote
This leads to the creation of dangerous ozone (O3).
141
What is the effect of VOCs in the formation of ozone?
VOCs pick up oxygen atoms during chemical reactions
## Footnote
This can lead to the formation of air pollutants.
142
What happens to chlorine molecules at the South Pole?
They do not freeze and continue to react
## Footnote
This is due to the extremely cold temperatures that cause other molecules to freeze.
143
What health issues can arise from ozone in the troposphere?
Damage to lung tissue and respiratory issues
## Footnote
Ozone can exacerbate conditions like asthma.
144
What is the annual number of fatalities caused by air pollution in Switzerland?
Around 3000 fatalities
## Footnote
This number is ten times higher than deaths caused by traffic accidents.
145
What are the annual health costs attributed to air pollution in Switzerland?
Roughly CHF 4 billion
## Footnote
This figure reflects the economic burden of health issues related to air quality.
146
What two types of smog are distinguished based on the season?
Winter smog and summer smog
## Footnote
Each type has different causes and effects on air quality.
147
What harmful substances contribute to the formation of summer smog?
Nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
## Footnote
These substances act as ozone precursors in the presence of sunlight.
148
Fill in the blank: The concentration of _______ in cities is still too high despite decreasing rates.
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
## Footnote
This is indicated by monitoring data over the years.
149
What environmental condition in 2015 contributed to unusually high ozone levels?
Heat waves
## Footnote
High temperatures increased the rate of chemical reactions that produce ozone.
150
True or False: Reduced rainfall helps to remove pollutants from the atmosphere.
False
## Footnote
Reduced rainfall lowers the washing out effect, allowing pollutants to accumulate.
151
What were the ozone levels like in urban areas in 2015 compared to 2016?
Higher in 2015
## Footnote
The summer of 2015 experienced significant pollution due to various factors.
152
List five possible effects of smog on human health.
* Coughing
* Leg pain
* Headaches
* Eye irritation
* Runny nose
## Footnote
These symptoms illustrate the acute impacts of air pollution on health.
153
What is the significance of the 'maximum monthly 98 percentile' in ozone monitoring?
It indicates the highest ozone levels recorded in a month
## Footnote
This metric helps assess air quality trends over time.
154
What is a major factor that leads to the accumulation of pollutants during heatwaves?
Less wind
## Footnote
Reduced wind speeds prevent the dispersion of pollutants.
155
What is the annual number of fatalities caused by air pollution in Switzerland?
Around 3000 fatalities
## Footnote
This number is ten times higher than deaths caused by traffic accidents.
156
What are the annual health costs attributed to air pollution in Switzerland?
Roughly CHF 4 billion
## Footnote
This figure reflects the economic burden of health issues related to air quality.
157
What two types of smog are distinguished based on the season?
Winter smog and summer smog
## Footnote
Each type has different causes and effects on air quality.
158
What harmful substances contribute to the formation of summer smog?
Nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
## Footnote
These substances act as ozone precursors in the presence of sunlight.
159
Fill in the blank: The concentration of _______ in cities is still too high despite decreasing rates.
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
## Footnote
This is indicated by monitoring data over the years.
160
What environmental condition in 2015 contributed to unusually high ozone levels?
Heat waves
## Footnote
High temperatures increased the rate of chemical reactions that produce ozone.
161
True or False: Reduced rainfall helps to remove pollutants from the atmosphere.
False
## Footnote
Reduced rainfall lowers the washing out effect, allowing pollutants to accumulate.
162
What were the ozone levels like in urban areas in 2015 compared to 2016?
Higher in 2015
## Footnote
The summer of 2015 experienced significant pollution due to various factors.
163
List five possible effects of smog on human health.
* Coughing
* Leg pain
* Headaches
* Eye irritation
* Runny nose
## Footnote
These symptoms illustrate the acute impacts of air pollution on health.
164
What is the significance of the 'maximum monthly 98 percentile' in ozone monitoring?
It indicates the highest ozone levels recorded in a month
## Footnote
This metric helps assess air quality trends over time.
165
What is a major factor that leads to the accumulation of pollutants during heatwaves?
Less wind
## Footnote
Reduced wind speeds prevent the dispersion of pollutants.
166
What happens to air when it is heated?
It expands and becomes less dense
167
What occurs when a parcel of air is warmer than the surrounding air?
It ascends
168
What occurs when a parcel of air is colder than the surrounding air?
It sinks
169
What is an inversion in meteorology?
A phenomenon where air temperature increases with height
170
What happens to vertical mixing during an inversion?
There is very little vertical mixing and exchange of air mass
171
What develops when cool air accumulates above the ground?
Fog
172
Why does fog develop in the proximity of water bodies?
Cold air can hold less moisture than warm air
173
What happens to airborne pollutants when an inversion lasts for hours or days?
They are not dispersed and can increase significantly
174
What are the main components of winter smog?
* Particulate matter
* Nitrogen oxide (NOx)
175
What size particles are particularly dangerous in winter smog?
Particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less (respirable suspended particles)
176
What are the primary sources of particulate matter and nitrogen oxide in winter smog?
Combustion (mainly industrial and heating)
177
Fill in the blank: An inversion is a meteorological phenomenon in which air temperature _______ with height.
[increases]
178
True or False: During an inversion, warm air is located below cooler air.
False
179
What atmospheric conditions contribute to the development of winter smog?
* Light emissions
* Little wind
* Temperature inversion
180
What is the relationship between altitude and temperature during an inversion?
Temperature increases with altitude
181
Which Swiss cities are compared with world metropolises in terms of air quality?
Cities such as Jakarta, New Delhi, and Bangkok
## Footnote
These cities are noted for having the worst air pollution.
182
What are the two types of particulate matter discussed?
PM 2.5 and PM 10
## Footnote
These refer to particulate matter of different sizes.
183
Which cities have the worst air pollution?
Jakarta, New Delhi, Bangkok
## Footnote
These cities are identified as having significant air quality issues.
184
What is PM 2.5?
Particulate matter with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers
185
What is PM 10?
Particulate matter with a diameter of less than 10 micrometers
186
Research Task: What cities or countries are currently affected by air pollution?
Identify specific cities or countries and their pollution issues
## Footnote
Include at least one article about a current air pollution problem.
187
Fill in the blank: The smallest particulate matter is known as _______.
PM 2.5
188
Fill in the blank: The larger particulate matter is referred to as _______.
PM 10
189
What are the common causes of air pollution in affected cities?
Industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, construction activities
## Footnote
These factors contribute to deteriorating air quality.
190
What are the effects of air pollution?
Health problems, environmental damage, economic costs
## Footnote
Air pollution has widespread impacts on both human health and the environment.
191
What percentage of the Earth's surface is covered with water?
71%
192
What is the estimated total volume of water on Earth?
1'386 billion km3
193
How much of the Earth's total water volume is fresh water?
36 million km3
194
What percentage of the Earth's total water volume do the oceans account for?
97%
195
What drives the movement of water in the water cycle?
Solar energy
196
What process involves water evaporating from oceans, lakes, rivers, and the Earth's surface?
Evaporation
197
What term describes the release of water into the atmosphere by plants, animals, and humans?
Transpiration
198
What forms when moisture in the atmosphere condenses?
Clouds
199
What is the term for moisture released from clouds?
Precipitation
200
What are the forms of precipitation?
* Rain
* Sleet
* Hail
* Snow
201
What happens to precipitation after it falls?
It seeps into the groundwater or flows back into the sea.
202
Fill in the blank: The process of water rising as vapor and forming clouds is called ______.
Condensation
203
What is the yearly average precipitation in Switzerland?
Approximately 1,700 mm
204
In Switzerland, what fraction of precipitation evaporates?
One-third
205
Which rivers drain from Switzerland in different directions?
* Rhône
* Rhine
* Inn
* Ticino
206
To which sea does the Rhône river drain?
Mediterranean Sea
207
To which sea does the Rhine river drain?
North Sea
208
To which body of water does the Inn river flow?
Danube and further into the Black Sea
209
To which sea does the Ticino river flow?
Adriatic Sea
210
What nickname is given to Switzerland due to its hydrological significance?
Water tower of Europe
211
What is the process by which water is added to the atmosphere?
Evaporation from the Earth's surface
## Footnote
Water is added in an invisible form as water vapour.
212
How does air temperature influence the capacity of air to hold water vapour?
The higher the air temperature, the more water vapour the air can hold.
213
What is the term for the amount of water vapour contained in one cubic meter of air?
Absolute humidity.
214
What happens when air reaches its saturation level?
The invisible water vapour condenses into tiny water droplets.
215
At what temperature does air with 6.8 g/m3 absolute humidity feel very dry?
30°C.
216
What is the term for the ratio of actual water vapour in the air to the maximum amount it can hold?
Relative humidity.
217
How is relative humidity calculated?
Relative Humidity (in %) = (Specific humidity / Maximum specific humidity) * 100.
218
What occurs when the saturation level of the air is exceeded?
Water vapour condenses into tiny water droplets.
219
What typically triggers condensation to occur in the air?
The air mass cools sufficiently to reach the dew point.
220
What are condensation nuclei?
Microscopic particles like dust, soot, or ice crystals.
221
What is the definition of saturation level?
The maximum amount of water vapour the air can hold at a specific temperature.
222
Fill in the blank: Relative Humidity is 0% when the air is _______.
empty of water vapour.
223
Fill in the blank: Relative Humidity is 100% when the air is _______.
full of water vapour.
224
What is the dew point?
The temperature at which air must cool down to reach 100% saturation.
225
What is the process by which water is added to the atmosphere?
Evaporation from the Earth's surface
## Footnote
Water is added in an invisible form as water vapour.
226
How does air temperature influence the capacity of air to hold water vapour?
The higher the air temperature, the more water vapour the air can hold.
227
What is the term for the amount of water vapour contained in one cubic meter of air?
Absolute humidity.
228
What happens when air reaches its saturation level?
The invisible water vapour condenses into tiny water droplets.
229
At what temperature does air with 6.8 g/m3 absolute humidity feel very dry?
30°C.
230
What is the term for the ratio of actual water vapour in the air to the maximum amount it can hold?
Relative humidity.
231
How is relative humidity calculated?
Relative Humidity (in %) = (Specific humidity / Maximum specific humidity) * 100.
232
What occurs when the saturation level of the air is exceeded?
Water vapour condenses into tiny water droplets.
233
What typically triggers condensation to occur in the air?
The air mass cools sufficiently to reach the dew point.
234
What are condensation nuclei?
Microscopic particles like dust, soot, or ice crystals.
235
What is the definition of saturation level?
The maximum amount of water vapour the air can hold at a specific temperature.
236
Fill in the blank: Relative Humidity is 0% when the air is _______.
empty of water vapour.
237
Fill in the blank: Relative Humidity is 100% when the air is _______.
full of water vapour.
238
What is the dew point?
The temperature at which air must cool down to reach 100% saturation.
239
What is precipitation?
The falling of water from the sky in different forms.
240
What size are droplets defined as drizzle?
Droplets of less than 0.5 mm.
241
What is fog?
A thin fog with condensation near the ground.
242
What is frost?
Frozen dew.
243
What causes raindrops to fall to the earth?
Gravity.
244
What is sleet?
Precipitation in the form of small semi-transparent balls of ice.
245
How is sleet formed?
When snow falls into a warm layer, melts into rain, then falls into a freezing layer of air.
246
What are hailstones primarily made of?
Water ice.
247
What is the size range of hailstones?
Between 0.2 inches (5 mm) and 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter.
248
What is diamond dust?
Extremely small ice crystals usually formed at low levels and at temperatures below -30 °C.
249
What are the causes of precipitation?
Various, including thunderstorms and frontal precipitation.
250
What is orographic precipitation?
Precipitation caused by air being pushed up a mountain.
251
What happens to warm air in relation to cold air?
Warm air is less dense and rises; cold air is more dense.
252
What is convective thunderstorm precipitation?
Rain resulting from condensation in clouds.
253
Fill in the blank: The air cannot hold enough water vapor any more when it reaches the _______.
Dew point.
254
True or False: Hailstones and sleet are the same.
False.
255
What happens to raindrops as they fall?
They get bigger as small cloud particles strike and bind together.
256
What is mist?
A form of precipitation made of tiny water droplets suspended in the air.
257
What is snow?
Precipitation in the form of ice crystals.
258
What is dew?
Condensed water from the air onto cool surfaces.
259
What are the three highest types of clouds in the atmosphere?
Cirrocumulus, cirrus, cirrostratus
## Footnote
These clouds are classified as high-altitude clouds.
260
Which clouds are considered 'good weather' clouds?
Cumulus clouds
## Footnote
Cumulus clouds form due to thermal convection.
261
What type of cloud is typically associated with rain?
Nimbostratus clouds
## Footnote
Nimbostratus clouds are typical rain clouds.
262
What prefix or suffix indicates a precipitating cloud?
Nimbo- or -nimbus
## Footnote
These terms are used to denote clouds that produce precipitation.
263
What are the mid-level clouds?
Altocumulus, altostratus
## Footnote
These clouds are found at medium heights in the atmosphere.
264
Describe stratus clouds.
Sheet-like structure, develop due to advection
## Footnote
Stratus clouds form when warm air moves over cold air or mountains.
265
What indicates an approaching warm front with worsening weather?
Cirrus clouds
## Footnote
Cirrus clouds are wispy and made of ice crystals.
266
Fill in the blank: Cumulonimbus clouds are known as _______ clouds.
thundercloud
## Footnote
Cumulonimbus clouds can produce thunderstorms with heavy precipitation.
267
What is the structure of cirrostratus clouds?
Thin veil of clouds made of ice crystals
## Footnote
Cirrostratus clouds indicate worsening weather within 1-2 days.
268
True or False: Stratocumulus clouds are low-level clouds.
True
## Footnote
Stratocumulus clouds are characterized by a low-hanging, nearly continuous cover.
269
What type of cloud indicates heavy precipitation is likely?
Nimbostratus clouds
## Footnote
Nimbostratus clouds are associated with prolonged precipitation.
270
List the types of clouds classified as low clouds.
* Stratus
* Cumulus
* Stratocumulus
## Footnote
These clouds are found at the lowest altitudes in the atmosphere.
271
What type of cloud is described as coarse and sheep-like?
Altocumulus clouds
## Footnote
Altocumulus clouds are mid-level clouds that mostly indicate stable weather.
272
Fill in the blank: The high-altitude cloud that indicates an approaching warm front is called _______.
cirrus
## Footnote
Cirrus clouds are made of ice crystals and have frayed rims.
273
What is the main characteristic of cumulonimbus clouds?
Tall towers from rising warm air
## Footnote
These clouds are associated with thunderstorms and heavy precipitation.
274
What is the difference between altostratus and stratus clouds?
Altostratus are mid-level layered clouds; stratus are low-level layered clouds
## Footnote
Altostratus clouds indicate imminent rain, while stratus clouds indicate prolonged precipitation.
275
What is the composition of air?
Air is a gas mixture composed of molecules and has mass.
276
What is atmospheric pressure (p)?
Atmospheric pressure is the pressure exerted by air molecules due to gravitation.
277
What is the average mass of an air column with a 1 cm² base at sea level?
1.0332 kg.
278
What is the scale unit for air pressure?
Hectopascal (hPa).
279
What is the standard atmospheric pressure at sea level in hPa?
1013 hPa.
280
How does air pressure change with altitude?
Air pressure decreases with increasing altitude.
281
At what rate does atmospheric pressure decrease at sea level?
1 hPa per 8 m.
282
What happens to your ears when descending from great altitudes?
Your ears pop due to pressure changes.
283
Why do sidewalls of a PET bottle collapse when descending in altitude?
Due to increasing pressure on the outside.
284
How does atmospheric pressure decrease with height in the lower troposphere?
Average value of 10 m per 1 hPa.
285
What are isobars?
Lines that connect locations with the same air pressure.
286
What is reduced pressure?
Air pressure calculated to be equivalent at sea level.
287
What is a surface weather map?
A map depicting reduced pressure or reduced isobars.
288
What do areas of high and low pressure represent on weather maps?
Relative conditions of pressure higher or lower than surrounding areas.
289
What is a ridge in meteorological terms?
An elongated area of relatively high pressure.
290
What is a trough in meteorological terms?
An elongated area of relatively low pressure.
291
What are low-pressure cells also known as?
Cyclones.
292
What are high-pressure cells also known as?
Anticyclones.
293
Fill in the blank: Air moves from ______ to ______ pressure.
high to low.
294
True or False: Air is highly compressible.
True.
295
What causes warm air to rise?
It is less dense than cold air.
296
What kind of air is associated with high pressure?
Cold, dense air.
297
What causes a thermal low pressure area?
Localized area of warm air rises, lowering atmospheric pressure
## Footnote
Warm air is less dense than surrounding air, leading to its ascent.
298
What phenomenon causes high pressure?
Subsidence
## Footnote
This refers to the cooling and densification of air above a high-pressure area, causing it to move toward the ground.
299
What weather conditions are typically associated with high pressure systems?
Clear skies and calm weather
## Footnote
High pressure systems evaporate most of the atmosphere's water vapor.
300
What happens to air as it moves from high pressure to low pressure?
It is warmed and can take up moisture
## Footnote
Wind results from the movement of air from areas of high pressure to low pressure.
301
How does the spacing of isobars relate to wind strength?
Close isobars indicate a strong pressure gradient and strong winds; far apart indicates a weak gradient and weak winds
## Footnote
The magnitude of the pressure gradient can be assessed by the spacing of isobars on weather maps.
302
What is the relationship between temperature and atmospheric pressure?
Cold air = high pressure; warm air = low pressure
## Footnote
This relationship affects weather patterns and wind movement.
303
Fill in the blank: Winds result from differences in _______.
atmospheric pressure
## Footnote
Air flows from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure.
304
True or False: The larger the pressure gradient, the weaker the wind blows.
False
## Footnote
A larger pressure gradient results in stronger winds.
305
What occurs to air in a thermal low pressure area as it rises?
It cools adiabatically and water condenses to form clouds
## Footnote
This process is crucial for cloud formation in weather systems.
306
What is the effect of wind on the temperature of the air?
Wind can warm air as it moves over the surface
## Footnote
This warming effect is enhanced when air flows across bodies of water.
307
What should be analyzed to determine wind conditions in Switzerland?
The steepest pressure gradient using isobars
## Footnote
Analyzing pressure gradients helps in understanding wind strength and direction.
308
What is wind speed measured in?
Wind speed is measured in km/h, m/s, knots
## Footnote
Knots is approximately 1.85 km/h.
309
What does the Beaufort wind force scale relate to?
The Beaufort wind force scale relates wind speed to observed sea conditions or effects on land.
310
In which contexts is the Beaufort scale still widely used?
The Beaufort scale is widely used in the English-speaking world and deep-sea navigation.
311
What unit of measurement for wind speed is commonly used in German-speaking countries?
In German-speaking countries, km/h is commonly used.
312
How is wind direction reported?
Wind direction is reported by the direction from which it originates.
313
What does a northerly wind indicate?
A northerly wind blows from the north to the south.
314
What are wind barbs used for?
Wind barbs are used to represent wind direction and speed on weather maps.
315
What does the 'head' of a wind barb indicate?
The 'head' of a wind barb points in the direction in which the wind blows.
316
What does a full line on the 'tail' of a wind barb represent?
A full line on the 'tail' of a wind barb represents 10 knots of speed.
317
What does a half line on the 'tail' of a wind barb represent?
A half line on the 'tail' of a wind barb represents 5 knots of speed.
318
What does a full blacked pennant or triangle symbolize on a wind barb?
A full blacked pennant or triangle symbolizes 50 knots of wind speed.
319
What is the wind speed for Beaufort Force 12?
64 knots.
320
What are the sea conditions described for Beaufort Force 12?
Sea completely white with driving spray, visibility very seriously affected, air filled with foam and spray.
321
What is a local wind system?
Localized winds that influence the weather on a small-scale.
322
What causes the development of the foehn wind?
A steep air pressure gradient (high pressure on one side of the mountain and low on the other).
323
What are the two types of breezes that develop due to differences in air pressure?
* Sea (offshore) breeze
* Land (onshore) breeze
324
Why does air above land heat more quickly than air above water during the day?
Due to differences in heat capacity.
325
How does the land cool compared to the sea overnight?
The land cools down more quickly than the sea because it has only been heated superficially.
326
When does the sea breeze typically develop?
During the day, especially in the afternoon.
327
What is the maximum speed of the sea breeze on coastlines in lower latitudes?
Up to 40 km/h.
328
True or False: The sea breeze increases relative humidity.
True.
329
Fill in the blank: The sea breeze is strongest on coastlines in the _______.
[lower latitudes]
330
What type of weather phenomenon can be influenced by local wind systems?
Cloud formation.
331
What are valley and mountain breezes?
Valley breezes occur during the day as warm air rises from the valley, while mountain breezes occur at night when cool air sinks from the mountains.
## Footnote
Valley breezes are typically warm, and mountain breezes are cool.
332
What happens to air as it is heated?
It expands, becoming less dense and lighter, causing it to rise above cooler air.
## Footnote
This process is essential for understanding air movement in valley and mountain breezes.
333
What is adiabatic cooling?
A process where air cools as it expands in lower pressure without heat being removed.
## Footnote
This results in a drop in temperature despite no heat loss.
334
What occurs as air rises higher in the atmosphere?
The air continues to expand due to lower pressure, requiring energy and causing molecules to vibrate slower.
## Footnote
This leads to a decrease in temperature of the air parcel.
335
What happens to air as it cools and sinks?
It becomes denser and is pushed closer together by the weight of air above, causing it to heat up again.
## Footnote
This process is known as adiabatic warming.
336
What is adiabatic warming?
A process where air temperature rises as it compresses and becomes more agitated without heat being added.
## Footnote
This occurs when air sinks in the atmosphere.
337
How much does temperature decrease during adiabatic cooling?
Approximately 0.65° per 100 m.
## Footnote
This rate can vary based on specific atmospheric conditions.
338
What is the temperature change rate for warming on the windward side?
1° per 100 m.
## Footnote
This indicates how air heats up as it descends.
339
What is the temperature change rate for warming on the leeward side?
1° per 100 m.
## Footnote
This reflects the consistent warming rate across both windward and leeward sides.
340
Fill in the blank: Adiabatic heating or cooling is the process of reducing or _______ a change in air pressure caused by volume expansion or temperature through.
[increasing]
## Footnote
This defines the fundamental concept of adiabatic processes.
