Weather Systems Test Prep
Radiation with the wavelength 5.0 10–5 centimeters is usually visible as what color?
1 violet
2 blue
3 green
4 yellow
What is the visibility, in miles, shown on the station model below?
(1) 10
(2) 28
(3) 38
(4) 57
The map below shows high-pressure and low-pressure weather systems in the United States.
Which two lettered positions on the map are most likely receiving precipitation?
(1) A and B
(2) B and D
(3) C and E
(4) A and D
Earth’s atmosphere is warmed when
(1) ultraviolet radiation emitted by Earth is absorbed by nitrogen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
(2) x-ray radiation emitted by Earth is absorbed by nitrogen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
(3) infrared radiation emitted by Earth is absorbed by carbon dioxide and water vapor in the atmosphere
(4) gamma radiation emitted by Earth is absorbed by carbon dioxide and water vapor in the atmosphere
Base your answers to the following two questions on the weather map below, which shows the location of
fronts and the temperature field on a given day in the United States.
The passage of a cold front most recently influenced the weather of which two cities?
1 Chicago and Boise
2 Las Vegas and Salt Lake City
3 Kansas City and Minneapolis
4 Detroit and Cincinnati
Which two cities most likely have an air temperature closest to 75°F?
1 Chicago and Detroit
2 Los Angeles and Denver
3 Oklahoma City and Memphis
4 Cincinnati and Kansas City
Base your answers to the following 5 questions using the Earth Science Reference Tables, the weather map
below, and your knowledge of Earth science. The map shows a high-pressure center
pressure center
and a low-
. Isobars are labeled in millibars.
The high-pressure system is most likely the center of a
1 continental polar air mass that originated in central Canada
2 maritime polar air mass that originated over the Gulf of Mexico
3 continental tropical air mass that originated in the Arctic region
4 maritime tropical air mass that originated over the Atlantic Ocean
Why does the region near the northern portion of the low-pressure center have cloudy skies and snow?
1 Air above this region is sinking and cooling, and water vapor is evaporating.
2 Air above this region is sinking and warming, and water vapor is evaporating.
3 Air above this region is rising and cooling, and water vapor is condensing.
4 Air above this region is rising and warming, and water vapor is condensing.
Which location has the highest velocity surface winds?
1 northern Maine
2 northwestern Ohio
3 central Tennessee
4 southeastern New York State
If the low-pressure system follows a typical storm track, the system will move toward the
1 northwest
2 northeast
3 southwest
4 southeast
In this Northern Hemisphere low-pressure system, the surface winds are circulating
1 clockwise and toward the center
2 clockwise and away from the center
3 counterclockwise and toward the center
4 counterclockwise and away from the center
The cross section below shows the flow of winds over a mountain ridge.
The heaviest rainfall would most likely occur on which side of this mountain and in which type of air mass?
(1) on the leeward side, in a mP air mass
(2) on the leeward side, in a cT air mass
(3) on the windward side, in a mT air mass
(4) on the windward side, in a cP air mass
Various weather conditions at LaGuardia Airport in New York City are shown on the station model below.
What were the barometric pressure and weather conditions at the airport at the time of the observation?
(1) 914.6 mb of pressure and smog
(2) 914.6 mb of pressure and a clear sky
(3) 1014.6 mb of pressure and smog
(4) 1014.6 mb of pressure and a clear sky
The properties of an air mass are mostly determined by the
(1) rate of Earth’s rotation
(2) direction of Earth’s surface winds
(3) source region where the air mass formed
(4) path the air mass follows along a land surface
Which graph best represents the relative wavelengths of the different forms of electromagnetic energy?
Base your answers to the following 3 questions on the weather map below and on your knowledge of Earth
science. The weather map shows a typical low-pressure system and associated weather fronts labeled A and
B. The L indicates the center of the low-pressure system. A few New York State cities are shown. Symbols
cP and mT represent different air masses. The wind direction at Utica and Rochester is shown on the station
models.
Which front symbols are drawn correctly, based on the air masses shown?
If this weather system is following a normal storm track, the center of this low is most likely moving toward
which city?
(1) Buffalo
(2) Ithaca
(3) Utica
(4) Plattsburgh
Which map shows the regions that are most likely experiencing the precipitation associated with this weather
system?
Which map best represents the surface wind pattern associated with high-pressure and low-pressure systems
in the Northern Hemisphere?
Which weather map symbol represents air masses that normally form just south of the United States over the
Caribbean Sea?
(1) cP
(2) cT
(3) mP
(4) mT
The map below shows the boundary between two air masses. The arrows show the direction in which the
boundary is moving.
Which weather map uses the correct weather front symbol to illustrate this information?
If a low-pressure system follows a typical storm track across New York State, it will move toward the
(1) southeast
(2) southwest
(3) northeast
(4) northwest
The diagram below shows conditions that commonly cause fog to form over land in coastal areas.
A weather station at the lighthouse records a temperature of 36°F and an air pressure of 1016.4 mb. Using
the proper weather map symbols, place the following information in the correct positions on the weather
station model below.
• Present weather
• Dewpoint
• Air pressure
• Wind direction
• Wind speed
Which station model represents a location that is currently receiving some form of precipitation?
Base your answers to the following 5 questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the data table below,
and your knowledge of Earth science. The data table shows a classification system for hurricanes. A storm
surge is a dome of water 65 to 80 kilometers wide that sweeps ashore at the coast near the point where the
storm center (eye) hits the land.
Which characteristic must a tropical storm have to be classified as a hurricane on the Safir-Simpson scale?
1 enough strength to cause catastrophic damage
2 a storm surge of at least 2.0 m
3 central air pressure over 980 mb
4 a windspeed of at least 119 km/hr
Which type of air mass is usually the source of the moisture that causes the strong winds and heavy rain
found in hurricanes?
(1) mT
(2) mP
(3) cT
(4) cP
The difference between the windspeed of a category-1 hurricane and the windspeed of a category-5 hurricane
is primarily caused by the differences in
1 types of clouds
2 amounts of precipitation
3 air-pressure gradients
4 air-temperature gradients
A hurricane with a central air pressure recorded at 28.70 inches has an expected storm surge of
(1) 1.3 m
(2) 2.0 m
(3) 3.3 m
(4) 4.0 m
Which graph best shows the relationship between the category number of a hurricane and the expected
damage from the storm?
Which map view best represents the pattern of isobar values, in millibars, and the pattern of wind flow,
shown by arrows, at Earth’s surface surrounding a Northern Hemisphere low-pressure center?
An observer measured the air temperature and the dewpoint and found the difference between them to be
12°C. One hour later, the difference between the air temperature and the dewpoint was found to be 4°C.
Which statement best describes the changes that were occurring?
(1) The relative humidity was decreasing and the chance of precipitation was decreasing.
(2) The relative humidity was decreasing and the chance of precipitation was increasing.
(3) The relative humidity was increasing and the chance of precipitation was decreasing.
(4) The relative humidity was increasing and the chance of precipitation was increasing.
Compared to a maritime tropical air mass, a maritime polar air mass has a
(1) higher temperature and more water vapor
(2) higher temperature and less water vapor
(3) lower temperature and more water vapor
(4) lower temperature and less water vapor
Base your answers to the following 3 questions on the map below, which shows sea-level air pressure, in
millibars, for a portion of the eastern coast of North America. Points A, B, C, and D are sea-level locations on
Earth’s surface.
Which weather instrument was used to measure the air pressures?
(1) thermometer
(2) wind vane
(3) sling psychrometer
(4) barometer
Which location most likely recorded the highest wind speed?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
The air pressure recorded at point D was most likely
(1) 1014 mb
(2) 1012 mb
(3) 1010 mb
(4) 1006 mb
Base your answers to the following 3 questions on the cross section below, which shows a typical cold front
moving over New York State in early summer.
Explain why the warm, moist air is rising at the frontal boundary.
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State one process that causes clouds to form in this rising air.
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Central Canada was the geographic source region for the cP air mass shown in the cross section. Identify the
most likely geographic source region for the mT air mass shown in the cross section.
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Base your answers to the following 2 questions on the station model below, which shows the weather
conditions at Rochester, New York, at 4 p.m. on a particular day in June.
What was the actual barometric pressure, according to the station model, to the nearest tenth of a millibar?
The winds shown by this station model were blowing from which compass direction and at what wind
speed?
The table below shows air-pressure readings taken at two cities, in the same region of the United States, at
noon on four different days.
The wind speed in the region between cities A and B was probably the greatest at noon on day
(1) 1
(2) 2
(3) 3
(4) 4
Which map shows the two correctly labeled air masses that frequently converge in the central plains to cause
tornadoes?
Base your answers to the following 6 questions on the two maps below and on your knowledge of Earth
science. Both maps show data from a December snowstorm. Map 1 shows the snowfall, measured in inches,
at various locations in New York State, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Map 2 shows weather conditions in
New York State and the surrounding region during the storm. Letter L represents the center of the lowpressure system that produced the snowstorm. Isobars show air pressure, in millibars.
On map 1 below, draw the 30.0-inch snowfall isoline. Assume that the decimal point for each snowfall depth
marks the exact location where the snowfall was measured.
Most residents knew this storm was coming. State one action a New York State resident should have taken to
prepare for a snow emergency.
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Using map 2, complete the table below by describing the weather conditions at Buffalo, New York.
Describe the general surface wind pattern around the low-pressure center shown on map 2.
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Toward which compass direction would this low-pressure center most likely have moved if this system
followed a normal storm track?
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Winds are blowing from high-pressure to low-pressure systems over identical ocean surfaces. Which
diagram represents the area of greatest windspeed? (Arrows indicate wind direction.)
Under which set of atmospheric conditions does water usually evaporate at the fastest rate?
1 warm temperatures, calm winds, and high humidity
2 warm temperatures, high winds, and low humidity
3 cold temperatures, calm winds, and low humidity
4 cold temperatures, high winds, and high humidity
A weather station model for a location in New York State is shown below.
The air mass over this location is best described as
1 cold with low humidity and high air pressure
2 cold with high humidity and low air pressure
3 warm with high humidity and low air pressure
4 warm with low humidity and high air pressure
The diagram below shows a cross section of a cumulus cloud. Line AB indicates the base of the cloud.
Which graph best represents the temperature measured along line AB?
Base your answers to the following 5 questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the weather map
below, and your knowledge of Earth science. The map shows a weather system that is affecting part of the
United States.
What is the total number of different kinds of weather fronts shown on this weather map?
(1) 1
(2) 2
(3) 3
(4) 4
Compared to the air over most of the map region, the air mass centered over Alabama is
1 warmer and more humid
2 warmer and drier
3 colder and more humid
4 colder and drier
Which sequence of events forms the clouds associated with this weather system?
1 Most air rises and becomes saturated in clean air.
2 Moist air rises, becomes saturated, and condenses on microscopic particles.
3 Moist air falls and reaches the dewpoint in clean air.
4 Moist air falls, reaches the dewpoint, and condenses on microscopic particles.
Which map best shows the areas in which precipitation is most likely occurring? [Darkened areas represent
precipitation.]
Which diagram shows the surface air movements most likely associated with the fronts?
In the visible spectrum, which color has the longest wavelength?
1 red
2 green
3 orange
4 violet
Base your answers to the following two questions on the map below, which shows North American air-mass
source regions, the resulting air-mass names, and typical air-mass tracks.
A maritime polar air mass approaching New York State would most likely bring
1 cool, moist air from the north
2 warm, moist air from the south
3 cool, dry air from the southeast
4 warm, dry air from the southwest
Polar air-mass characteristics differ from tropical air-mass characteristics primarily because the source
regions differ in their
1 nearness to land
2 nearness to water
3 latitude
4 longitude
The cartoon below shows a humorous view of a weather phenomenon.
Rain fell from the cloud because
1 too few condensation nuclei were in the cloud
2 the cloud’s water droplets combined and became large enough to fall
3 evaporation in the upper portion of the cloud caused the cloud to become smaller and “squeezed” water out
4 the temperature of the cloud rose above the dewpoint
A mercury barometer that is used to measure air pressure is shown below.
A decrease in the height of the mercury column usually indicates the approach of a
1 low-pressure system and stormy weather
2 low-pressure system and clear weather
3 high-pressure system and stormy weather
4 high-pressure system and clear weather
The graph below shows the air pressure recorded at the same time at several locations between Niagara Falls
and Albany.
Based on the information in this graph, the wind velocity is probably greatest between which two cities?
1 Niagara Falls and Rochester
2 Rochester and Syracuse
3 Syracuse and Utica
4 Utica and Albany
The map below shows partial weather conditions for weather stations A and B at 4 p.m. A weather front is
located between the two stations.
Which graph represents the temperature change that will most likely occur at station A as the front passes in
the next three hours?
Base your answers to the following five questions on the earth Science Reference Tables, the weather map
below, and your knowledge of Earth Science. The map shows weather systems over the central and eastern
United States and weather data for several cities.
Which city has the greatest wind velocity?
1 Louisville, Kentucky
2 Chicago, Illinois
3 Dallas, Texas
4 Atlanta, Georgia
Which city has the highest relative humidity?
1 Mobile, Alabama
2 Minneapolis, Minnesota
3 Miami, Florida
4 Memphis, Tennessee
If the low-pressure center shown on the map follows a typical storm track, the system will move toward the
1 northeast
2 northwest
3 southeast
4 southwest
Which map correctly shows the movement of surface air associated with the high-pressure and low-pressure
systems?
Which Cross-sectional diagram of the lower atmosphere along line AB best represents the fronts and the
movement of air masses?
A station model is shown below.
What is the air pressure at this location?
(1) 902.9 mb
(2) 1002.9 mb
(3) 1029.0 mb
(4) 9029.0 mb
As a weather balloon released from the surface of Earth rises through the troposphere, the instruments it
carries will usually indicate that
1 temperature, atmospheric pressure, and concentration of water vapor decrease
2 temperature decreases, but atmospheric pressure and concentration of water vapor increase
3 temperature increases, but atmospheric pressure and concentration of water vapor decrease
4 temperature, atmospheric pressure, and concentration of water vapor increase
Base your answers to the following two questions on the diagram below, which shows Earth’s planetary
wind belts and pressure belts.
The best inference that can be made from this diagram is that winds blow from regions of
1 high latitude to regions of low latitude
2 high pressure to regions of low pressure
3 high elevation to regions of low elevation
4 high temperature to regions of low temperature
The surface winds shown in the diagram follow curving paths mainly due to Earth’s
1 revolution
2 rotation
3 gravitational field
4 magnetic field
Close spacing of isobars on a weather map is a good indicator of
1 low visibility
2 low dewpoint temperatures
3 high air temperatures
4 high wind velocity
What is the air pressure indicated on the weather station model shown below?
(1) 900.6 mb
(2) 960.0 mb
(3) 1000.6 mb
(4) 1006.0 mb
The prevailing southwesterlies wind belt causes most low-pressure weather systems to travel across the
United States from the
1 southwest toward the northeast
2 northwest toward the southeast
3 northeast toward the southwest
4 southeast toward the northwest
Base your answers to the following five questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the weather map
below showing part of the United States, and your knowledge of Earth science.
Which map best represents the correct location of the 1004-mb, 1008-mb, and 1012-mb isobars?
The arrows on which map best represent the direction of surface winds associated with the high-pressure and
low-pressure systems?
Which city is located in an mT air mass?
1 Richmond, Virginia
2 St. Louis, Missouri
3 Detroit, Michigan
4 Buffalo, New York
Which city has the highest relative humidity?
1 Chicago, Illinois
2 Buffalo, New York
3 Albany, New York
4 Boston, Massachusetts
The arrows in the cross sections below represent the general direction of air movement. Which cross section
along a straight line between Cincinnati and Boston best represents the weather fronts, clouds, precipitation,
and general direction of air movement shown in the map?
Which geographic area is a common source region for cP air masses that move into New York State?
(1) southwestern United States
(2) central Canada
(3) the north Pacific Ocean
(4) the Gulf of Mexico
A parcel of air has a dry-bulb temperature of 24°C and a relative humidity of 55%. What is the dewpoint of
this parcel of air?
(1) 6°C
(2) 14°C
(3) 24°C
(4) 29°C
The surface winds in a typical Northern Hemisphere high-pressure system are generally moving
(1) counterclockwise away from the high-pressure center
(2) counterclockwise toward the high-pressure center
(3) clockwise away from the high-pressure center
(4) clockwise toward the high-pressure center
On which weather map do the front symbols best represent the direction of movement of the cold front and
warm front associated with the low-pressure system shown on the map?
Base your answers to the following five questions on the data table and map below and on your knowledge
of Earth science. The data table shows the altitude of the top of a thunderstorm cloud and the probability of
hail being formed for a location in New York State. The map shows the average number of days per year hail
strikes the ground in different regions of the United States.
Describe the relationship between the altitude of the top of a thunderstorm cloud and the probability that hail
will be produced by that cloud.
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Into which atmospheric temperature zone (layer) above New York State would the top of a thunderstorm
cloud extend to have a 100% probability of hail?
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State the average number of days per year that Syracuse, New York, will experience hail.
The table below shows weather conditions recorded in Syracuse, New York, at the time of a severe
hailstorm.
On the weather map station model below, use the correct symbols and proper format to indicate the six
weather conditions shown in the table.
State one way that humans could protect themselves from harm if a severe hail warning is issued for their
locality.
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Which map best represents the surface wind pattern around a Northern Hemisphere high-pressure center?
Base your answers to the following two questions on the weather map below, which shows a low-pressure
system centered near Poughkeepsie, New York. Isobars shown are measured in millibars.
Which city is most likely experiencing winds of the greatest velocity?
(1) New York City
(2) Binghamton
(3) Poughkeepsie
(4) Scranton
Surface winds are most likely blowing from
(1) Danbury toward New York City
(2) Poughkeepsie toward Scranton
(3) Binghamton toward Danbury
(4) Port Jervis toward Binghamton
Base your answers to the following five questions on the passage below and on your knowledge of Earth
science. The passage describes a tornado produced from a thunderstorm that moved through a portion of
New York State on May 31, 1998.
New York Tornado
A small tornado formed and moved through the town of Apalachin, New York, at 5:30 p.m.,
producing winds between 40 and 72 miles per hour. The tops of trees were snapped off, and many large
limbs fell to the ground. The path of the destruction measured up to 200 feet wide. At 5:45 p.m., the tornado
next moved through the town of Vestal where winds ranged between 73 and 112 miles per hour. Many
people experienced personal property damage as many homes were hit with flying material.
At 6:10 p.m., the tornado moved close to Binghamton, producing winds between 113 and 157 miles
per hour. A 1000-foot television tower was pushed over, and many heavy objects were tossed about by the
strong winds. Then the tornado lifted off the ground for short periods of time and bounced along toward the
town of Windsor. At 6:15 p.m., light damage was done to trees as limbs fell and small shallow-rooted trees
were pushed over in Windsor.
The tornado increased in strength again at 6:20 p.m. as it moved into Sanford. Some homes were
damaged as their roof shingles and siding were ripped off. One mobile home was turned over on its side.
The tornado moved through the town of Deposit at 6:30 p.m., creating a path of destruction 200 yards wide.
The tornado skipped along hilltops, touching down occasionally on the valley floors. However, much
damage was done to homes as the tornado’s winds reached their maximum speeds of 158 to 206 miles per
hour. The tornado weakened and sporadically touched down after leaving Deposit. By 7:00 p.m., the tornado
had finally ended its 1 -hour rampage.
On the map below, draw the path of the tornado and the direction the tornado moved, by following the
directions below.
• Place an X through the point for each of the six towns mentioned in the passage.
• Connect the Xs with a line in the order that each town was mentioned in the passage.
• Place an arrow at one end of your line to show the direction of the tornado’s movement.
The tornado mentioned in this passage was produced by cold, dry air from Canada quickly advancing into
warm, moist air already in place over the northeastern United States. List the two-letter air-mass symbols that
would identify each of the two air masses responsible for producing this tornado.
Which type of front was located at the boundary between the advancing cold, dry air mass and the warm,
moist air mass?
Using the Fujita Scale shown below and the information in the passage, complete the table below, by
assigning an F-Scale number for the tornado as it passed through each town given in the table.
Calculate the tornado’s average rate of travel, in miles per minute, between Vestal and Windsor, by using the
equation below. Express your answer to the nearest tenth.
A weather instrument is shown below.
Which weather variable is measured by this instrument?
(1) wind speed
(2) precipitation
(3) cloud cover
(4) air pressure
In the United States, most tornadoes are classified as intense
(1) low-pressure funnel clouds that spin clockwise
(2) low-pressure funnel clouds that spin counterclockwise
(3) high-pressure funnel clouds that spin clockwise
(4) high-pressure funnel clouds that spin counterclockwise
Which type of air mass is associated with warm, dry atmospheric conditions?
(1) cP
(2) cT
(3) mP
(4) mT
Earth’s surface winds generally blow from regions of higher
(1) air temperature toward regions of lower air temperature
(2) air pressure toward regions of lower air pressure
(3) latitudes toward regions of lower latitudes
(4) elevations toward regions of lower elevations
Base your answers to the following three questions on the information on the four station models shown
below. The weather data were collected at Niagara Falls, Syracuse, Utica, and New York City at the same
time.
What was the air pressure in Niagara Falls?
Explain how the weather conditions shown on the station models suggest that Utica had the greatest chance
of precipitation.
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New York City was experiencing a wind blowing from the south at 10 knots with hazy conditions limiting
visibility to ¾ of a mile. On the station model for New York City below, place, in the proper location and
format, the information below.
• wind direction
• wind speed
• present weather
• visibility
Base your answers to the following two questions on the barogram below, which shows air pressure recorded
in millibars at Green Bay, Wisconsin, from April 2 through April 4, 1982.
Calculate the rate of change in air pressure from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on April 3. Label your answer with the
correct units.
What most likely caused the changes in air pressure for the period of time shown on the graph?
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Air pressure is usually highest when the air is
1 warm and humid
2 warm and dry
3 cold and humid
4 cold and dry
The cross section below shows a weather front. The large arrow shows the direction of the movement of the
cool air mass.
Which type of weather front is shown?
1 warm front
2 cold front
3 occluded front
4 stationary front
An air mass that originates over the northern Pacific Ocean and moves southward over the United States
would most likely be labeled on a weather map as
(1) mP
(2) mT
(3) cP
(4) cT
What is the primary cause of winds?
1 humidity differences
2 air pressure differences
3 the revolution of Earth
4 the rotation of Earth
The satellite photograph below shows a Northern Hemisphere cloud pattern.
The center of this cloud pattern is most likely the center of a
1 cold, dry air mass
2 warm, dry air mass
3 low-pressure system
4 high-pressure system
The northeastward flow of the Gulf Stream Ocean current is caused primarily by
1 tides
2 precipitation
3 atmospheric winds
4 revolution of Earth
The weather characteristics of an air ass result primarily from its
1 geographic origin
2 size and shape
3 rate of movement
4 direction of movement
Most surface ocean currents are caused by
1 tides
2 evaporation
3 prevailing winds
4 salinity differences
The cartoon below shows a strong wind blowing from right to left.
The wind is blowing from the right to left because the region to the right has a higher
1 air temperature
2 air pressure
3 relative humidity
4 elevation
Which type of weather is indicated by closely spaced isobars on a weather map?
1 calm conditions
2 strong winds
3 thick clouds
4 clear skies
Base your answers to the following five questions on the Earth Science Reference Tables, the weather map
below, and your knowledge of Earth science. The weather map shows a storm system centered near the Great
Lakes. Letters A through D represent weather stations shown on the map.
What weather conditions are shown at location D?
1 cloudy skies with light snow
2 cloudy skies with freezing rain
3 saturated air with no precipitation
4 partly cloudy skies with rain showers
What type of weather front has entered New York State?
1 warm
2 cold
3 stationary
4 occluded
Which weather station is located in the mT air mass associated with this storm?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Which map best shows the surface winds associated with the high-pressure and low-pressure center on the
weather map?
Letters W, X, Y, and Z on the map below represent possible directions of movement for this storm center.
Which arrow best shows the direction this storm center will move if it follows a normal storm track?
(1) W
(2) X
(3) Y
(4) Z
Which weather condition most directly determines wind speeds at Earth’s surface?
(1) visibility changes
(2) amount of cloud cover
(3) air-pressure gradient
(4) dewpoint differences
Which statement best explains why an increase in the relative humidity of a parcel of air generally increases
the chance of precipitation?
(1) The dewpoint is farther from the condensation point, causing rain.
(2) The air temperature is closer to the dewpoint, making cloud formation more likely.
(3) The amount of moisture in the air is greater, making the air heavier.
(4) The specific heat of the moist air is greater than the drier air, releasing energy.
The weather instrument below can be used to determine relative humidity.
Based on the temperatures shown, the relative humidity is
(1) 19%
(2) 2%
(3) 33%
(4) 40%
Which station model shows the correct form for indicating a northwest wind at 25 knots and an air pressure
of 1023.7 mb?
Base your answers to the following three questions on the weather map below. The weather map shows a
low pressure system in New York State during July. The L represents the center of the low-pressure system.
Two fronts extend from the center of the low. Line XY on the map is a reference line.
The cross section below shows a side view of the area along line XY on the map. On lines 1 and 2 in the cross
section, place the appropriate two-letter air-mass symbols to identify the most likely type of air mass at each
of these locations.
The forecast for one city located on the map is given below:
“In the next hour, skies will become cloud covered. Heavy rains are expected
with possible lightning and thunder. Temperatures will become much cooler.”
State the name of the city for which this forecast was given. ___________________________________
Identify one action that people should take to protect themselves from lightning.
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Base your answers to the following four questions on the weather map below. The map shows a low-pressure
system and some atmospheric conditions at weather stations A, B, and C.
Which type of weather is usually associated with a cP air mass, as shown near weather station C?
(1) moist and cool
(2) moist and warm
(3) dry and cool
(4) dry and warm
Which cross section best represents the air masses, air movement, clouds, and precipitation occurring behind
and ahead of the warm front located between stations A and B?
The arrows on which map best represent the direction of surface winds associated with this low-pressure
system?
If this weather system follows a normal storm track, the low-pressure center (L) will generally move toward
the
(1) northeast
(2) northwest
(3) southeast
(4) southwest
On the weather map station model provided below, using the proper format, record the six weather conditions
shown below.
Wind: from the northwest
Wind speed: 10 knots
Barometric pressure: 1022.0 mb
Cloud cover: 50%
Visibility: 5 mi
Precipitation (in the past 6 hours): .45 in
Which weather change is most likely indicated by rapidly falling air pressure?
(1) Humidity is decreasing.
(2) Temperature is decreasing.
(3) Skies are clearing.
(4) A storm is approaching.
Base your answers to the following four questions on the satellite image below, which shows a Northern
Hemisphere hurricane, and on your knowledge of Earth science.
What is the usual surface wind pattern around the eye of Northern Hemisphere hurricanes?
(1) clockwise and outward
(2) clockwise and inward
(3) counterclockwise and outward
(4) counterclockwise and inward
Which air mass is normally associated with the formation of hurricanes?
(1) continental tropical
(2) maritime tropical
(3) continental polar
(4) maritime polar
Clouds form in the hurricane because the air is
(1) sinking, expanding, and cooling
(2) sinking, compressing, and warming
(3) rising, expanding, and cooling
(4) rising, compressing, and warming
When the eye of this hurricane reaches 43° N latitude, this hurricane will most likely be pushed by planetary
winds toward the
(1) northwest
(2) northeast
(3) southwest
(4) southeast
Base your answers to the following two questions on the weather map below, which shows the position of a
low pressure system. The L is the center of the low. The shaded portion represents an area of precipitation. A
weather station model for Albany, New York, is shown on the map.
What type of front extends eastward from the low-pressure center?
Below, complete the weather data table for Albany, New York, based on the station model shown on the
map.
Base your answers to the following two questions on the weather map provided below, which shows surface
air-pressure readings, in millibars, at various locations in the United States and Canada. The 1020-millibar
isobars have been drawn and labeled.
Draw the 1024- and 1028-millibar isobars on the weather map provided below.
What weather instrument was most likely used to measure these air pressures?
______________________________________________________
The map provided below shows six source regions for different air masses that affect the weather of North
America. The directions of movement of the air masses are shown. Using the standard two-letter air-mass
symbols from the Earth Science Reference Tables, label the air masses by writing the correct symbol in each
circle on the map.
In which direction do surface winds around low-pressure centers in the Northern Hemisphere generally
move?
(1) counterclockwise, toward the center of the low
(2) clockwise, toward the center of the low
(3) counterclockwise, away from the center of the low
(4) clockwise, away from the center of the low
Which weather station model shows the highest relative humidity?
The temperature field map below represents surface air temperatures within a park. The location of a lake
within the park is also indicated.
Which graph best represents the temperature profile along a straight line from point A to point B?
Base your answers to the following four questions on the weather map provided below, which shows partial
weather-station data for several cities in eastern North America.
On the weather map provided below, draw isotherms every 10°F, starting with 40°F and ending with 70°F.
Isotherms must extend to the edges of the map.
In the space provided below, calculate the temperature gradient between Richmond, Virginia, and Hatteras,
North Carolina, by following the directions below.
a Write the equation for gradient.
b Substitute data from the map into the equation.
c Calculate the average gradient and label your answer with the correct units.
State the actual air pressure, in millibars, shown at Miami, Florida.
State the general relationship between air temperature and latitude for locations shown on the map.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Base your answers to the following four questions on the atmospheric cross section below, which represents
a winter storm system. Zones A, B, C, and D are located on a west to east line at approximately 43° N
latitude across New York State. This cross section shows how solid and liquid forms of precipitation depend
on the air temperature above Earth’s surface. The storm is moving from west to east.
Explain why sleet is occurring in Zone B.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
At the time of the events represented by the cross section, Syracuse, New York, is experiencing the following
weather conditions:
The temperature, dewpoint, and wind direction are shown on the weather station model below. Using proper
format, add the information shown in the table to the model provided below.
As the storm moves eastward, the type of precipitation received in Syracuse changes.
State the type of precipitation that will immediately follow freezing rain.
_________________________________________________________
Describe the general air movement and temperature change that caused the clouds associated with this storm
to form.
On a certain day, the isobars on a weather map are very close together over eastern New York State. To
make the people of this area aware of possible risk to life and property in this situation, the National Weather
Service should issue
(1) a dense-fog warning
(2) a high-wind advisory
(3) a heat-index warning
(4) an air-pollution advisory
A weather station records the following data:
Air pressure is 1,001.0 millibars.
Wind is from the south.
Wind speed is 25 knots.
Using the proper weather map symbols, place this information in the correct locations on the weather station
model provided below.
The weather map below shows a typical midlatitude low-pressure system centered in Illinois.
a On the weather map provided below, indicate which boxed area has the highest surface air temperatures by
marking an X in one of the four boxes on the map.
b On the weather map provided below, draw an arrow to predict the normal storm track that this low-pressure
center would be expected to follow.
Base your answers to the following three questions on data tables I and II and on the Hurricane Tracking
Map below. Table I represents the storm track data for an Atlantic hurricane. Location, wind velocity, air
pressure, and storm strength are shown for the storm’s center at 3 p.m. Greenwich time each day. Table II
shows a scale of relative storm strength. The map shows the hurricane’s path.
Describe two characteristics of the circulation pattern of the surface winds around the center (eye) of a
Northern Hemisphere low-pressure hurricane.
The hurricane did not continue moving toward the same compass direction during the entire period shown by
the data table. Explain why the hurricane changed direction.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
In the space provided below, calculate the average daily rate of movement of the hurricane during the period
from 3 p.m. August 24 to 3 p.m. August 28.
The hurricane traveled 2,600 kilometers during this 4-day period. Follow the directions given below.
a Write the equation used to determine the rate of change.
b Substitute data into the equation.
c Calculate the rate and label it with the proper units.
An air mass classified as mP usually forms over which type of Earth surface?
(1) warm land
(2) warm ocean
(3) cool land
(4) cool ocean
The air-pressure field map below represents a high-pressure system over the central United States. Isobars
show the air pressure, in millibars. Letters A through E represent locations on Earth’s surface.
Between which two locations is the wind speed greatest?
(1) A and B
(2) B and C
(3) C and D
(4) D and E
Weather along most fronts is usually cloudy with precipitation because the warm air along most fronts is
usually
(1) sinking and cooling, causing water to evaporate
(2) sinking and warming, causing water to evaporate
(3) rising and cooling, causing water vapor to condense
(4) rising and warming, causing water vapor to condense
Base your answers to the following three questions on the weather map below, which shows air temperature
and winds for a few locations in the eastern half of the United States. A large low-pressure system is shown
on the map.
Surface winds within this low-pressure system generally flow
(1) clockwise and toward the center of the system
(2) clockwise and away from the center of the system
(3) counterclockwise and toward the center of the system
(4) counterclockwise and away from the center of the system
Which type of front extends eastward from the low-pressure center?
(1) cold
(2) warm
(3) occluded
(4) stationary
If the low-pressure center follows a typical storm track, it will move toward the
(1) southwest
(2) southeast
(3) northwest
(4) northeast
Base your answers to the following three questions on the weather station model provided below.
On the weather station model provided above, draw the proper symbols to indicate a wind of 25 knots
blowing from the southeast.
What is the actual air pressure shown by this weather station model?
a What specific type of precipitation is occurring at this weather station?
b State one additional weather condition shown by the station model. Explain how this weather condition
provides evidence of high relative humidity.
The graph below shows changes in the atmosphere occurring above typical air-mass source regions A, B, C,
and D. Changes in air temperature and altitude are shown as the graphed lines. Changes in water-vapor
content, in grams of vapor per kilogram of air, are shown as numbers on each graphed line.
Which list best identifies each air-mass source region?
(1) A — cT, B — cP, C — mP, D — mT
(2) A — cP, B — mP, C — mT, D — cT
(3) A — mP, B — mT, C — cT, D — cP
(4) A — mT, B — cT, C — cP, D — mP
Which map best represents the direction of surface winds associated with the high- and low-pressure
systems?
The atmospheric conditions at a given location are represented by the weather station model below.
On the lines provided below, fill in the correct information for each variable listed, based on this weather
station model.
Base your answers to the following four questions on the data table below, which shows recorded
information for a major Atlantic hurricane. Use the map provided below to answer the first two questions.
Using the latitude and longitude data in the table, place an X on the map provided below for each location of
the hurricane during these 6 days. Connect all the Xs with a solid line.
Label the September 15 (9/15) position of the hurricane on the map. Starting from this plotted position on
September 15, draw a dashed line on the map provided above to indicate the storm’s most likely path for the
next 5 days.
Identify the weather instrument used to measure the air pressure associated with this hurricane.
____________________________________
Describe the relationship between air pressure and wind speed associated with this hurricane.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Base your answers to the following two questions on the weather map provided below, which shows a large
white band of clouds moving toward the southeast. The line shown in the middle of the white cloud band is
the frontal boundary between a cP air mass and an mT air mass. Two large arrows show the direction the
front is moving.
On the frontal boundary line on the weather map provided above, draw the weather front symbol to represent
the front moving toward the southeast.
On the same weather map, place an X centered on the geographic region that was most likely the source of
the warm, moist (mT) air mass.
In New York State, dry, cool air masses (cP) often interact with moist, warm air masses (mT).
Which statement correctly matches each air mass with its usual geographic source region?
(1) cP is from the North Atlantic Ocean and mT is from the deserts of the southwestern United States.
(2) cP is from northern Canada and mT is from the deserts of the southwestern United States.
(3) cP is from northern Canada and mT is from the Gulf of Mexico.
(4) cP is from the North Atlantic Ocean and mT is from the Gulf of Mexico.
In which map does the arrow show the general direction that most low-pressure storm systems move across
New York State?
Which map best represents the global prevailing surface wind patterns responsible for generating Atlantic
Ocean currents?
The station model below shows the weather conditions at Massena, New York, at 9 a.m. on a particular day
in June.
What was the barometric pressure at Massena 3 hours earlier on that day?
(1) 997.1 mb
(2) 999.7 mb
(3) 1003.3 mb
(4) 1009.1 mb
Base your answers to the following five questions on the weather satellite photograph of a portion of the
United States and Mexico provided below. The photograph shows the clouds of a major hurricane
approaching the eastern coastline of Texas and Mexico. The calm center of the hurricane, the eye, is labeled.
This hurricane has a pattern of surface winds typical of all low-pressure systems in the Northern Hemisphere.
On the satellite photograph provided, draw three arrows on the clouds to show the direction of the surface
wind movement outside the eye of the hurricane.
Cloud droplets form around small particles in the atmosphere. Describe how the hurricane clouds formed
from water vapor. Include the terms “dewpoint” and either “condensation” or “condense” in your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
State the latitude and longitude of the hurricane’s eye. The compass directions must be included in the
answer.
At the location shown in the photograph, the hurricane had maximum winds recorded at 110 miles per hour.
Within a 24-hour period, the hurricane moved 150 miles inland and had maximum winds of only 65 miles
per hour. State why the wind velocity of a hurricane usually decreases when the hurricane moves over a land
surface.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
a State two dangerous conditions, other than hurricane winds, that could cause human fatalities as the
hurricane strikes the coast.
b Describe one emergency preparation humans could take to avoid a problem caused by one of these
dangerous conditions.
A map view of surface air movement in a low-pressure system is shown below.
The air near the center of this low-pressure system usually will
(1) evaporate into a liquid
(2) reverse direction
(3) rise and form clouds
(4) squeeze together to form a high-pressure system
Base your answers to the following three questions on the weather map of North America below. The map
shows the location of a front and the air mass influencing its movement.
Which region is the probable source of the air mass labeled cP on the map?
(1) central Canada
(2) southwestern United States
(3) North Atlantic Ocean
(4) Gulf of Mexico
Which type of front and frontal movement is shown on the weather map?
(1) cold front moving northwestward
(2) cold front moving southeastward
(3) warm front moving northwestward
(4) warm front moving southeastward
The cP air mass is identified on the basis of its temperature and
(1) wind direction
(2) cloud cover
(3) moisture content
(4) windspeed
Base your answers to the following three questions on the data table below. The table shows the elevation
and average annual precipitation at ten weather stations, A through J, located along a highway that passes
over a mountain.
On the grid provided below, graph the data shown on the data table by following the directions below.
a Mark the grid with a point showing the elevation of each weather station.
b Surround each point with the proper symbol from the symbol chart to show the amount of average annual
precipitation for the weather station.
State the relationship between the elevation of weather stations A through E and the average annual
precipitation at these weather stations.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Although stations C and F are at the same elevation, they have very different amounts of average annual
precipitation. Explain how the prevailing wind direction might cause this difference.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
The following weather data was collected at Boonville, New York.
On the station model provided below, using the proper format, record:
• the amount of cloud cover
• the barometric pressure
• the symbol for the present weather
An Earth science class is preparing a booklet on emergency preparedness. State one safety measure that
should be taken to minimize danger from each of the following threats.
a Thunderstorm
b Tornado
c Volcanic eruption
The data below represent some of the weather conditions at a New York State location on a winter morning.
What was the dewpoint at this time?
(1) 1°C
(2) 2°C
(3) –3°C
(4) –5°C
Students wish to study the effect of elevation above sea level on air temperature and air pressure.
They plan to hike in the Adirondack Mountains from Heart Lake, elevation 2,179 feet, to the peak of Mt.
Marcy, elevation 5,344 feet. Which instruments should they use to collect their data?
(1) anemometer and psychrometer
(2) anemometer and barometer
(3) thermometer and psychrometer
(4) thermometer and barometer
Weather-station measurements indicate that the dewpoint temperature and air temperature are getting farther
apart and that air pressure is rising. Which type of weather is most likely arriving at the station?
(1) a snowstorm
(2) a warm front
(3) cool, dry air
(4) maritime tropical air
Base your answers to the following four questions on the weather map provided below, which shows a
weather system over the northeastern United States and weather data for several locations. Isobars show a
low-pressure (L) center. Point  is a location in Canada.
On the weather map provided below, draw a curved arrow through point  to show the general direction of
surface winds on that side of the low-pressure center.
State the relationship between isobar spacing on the map and wind velocity.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Describe the five specific weather conditions for Charleston indicated by the station model on the weather
map. Complete the chart provided below and include appropriate units where necessary.
Describe how clouds form when warm, humid air rises along the cold front.
a Include the terms dewpoint and either expansion or expands in your answer.
b State the phase change that occurs at the dewpoint.
Which type of air mass usually contains the most moisture?
(1) mT
(2) mP
(3) cT
(4) cP
Base your answers to the following three questions on the weather map below. Points A, B, C, and D are
locations on Earth’s surface.
The isolines on the map represent values of air
(1) density
(2) humidity
(3) pressure
(4) temperature
The strongest winds are closest to location
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Which type of front extends southward from the center of the low?
(1) occluded
(2) stationary
(3) warm
(4) cold
Base your answers to the following three questions on the weather information below.
A student using a sling psychrometer obtained a dry-bulb reading of 20°C and a wetbulb reading of 16°C for
a parcel of air outside the classroom.
State the dewpoint.
State the change in relative humidity as the air temperature and the dewpoint get closer to the same value.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
On another day, the student determined the dewpoint was 70°F. Record the dewpoint, using the proper
format, in the correct location on the weather station model provided below.
Which atmospheric conditions would cause smoke from a campfire on a beach to blow toward the ocean?
(1) warm air over the land and cool air over the ocean
(2) humid air over the land and dry air over the ocean
(3) low-density air over the land and high density air over the ocean
(4) high air pressure over the land and low air pressure over the ocean
Which weather change usually occurs when the difference between the air temperature and the dewpoint
temperature is decreasing?
(1) The amount of cloud cover decreases.
(2) The probability of precipitation decreases.
(3) The relative humidity increases.
(4) The barometric pressure increases.
Using the proper format, place the following data on the weather station model provided below.
Dewpoint = 74°F
Cloud cover = 100%
Base your answers to the following two questions in part on the maps below, which show areas of hurricane
formation and normal hurricane paths in the Atlantic Ocean during May, July, and September. The areas of
hurricane formation usually have surface ocean-water temperatures greater than 80°F.
How does the area of hurricane formation change from May to September?
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
State one reason why most hurricane paths curve northeastward as hurricanes move north of 30° N latitude.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Base your answers to the following three questions on the weather map provided below. The weather map
shows a low-pressure system over part of North America. Five weather stations are shown on the map. Lines
AB, BC, and BD represent surface frontal boundaries. Line AB represents an occluded front that marks the
center of a low-pressure system. Symbols cP and mT represent different air masses.
On the weather map provided below, place the proper front symbols on lines AB, BC, and BD. Place the front
symbols on the correct side of each line to show the direction of front movement.
Name the geographic region over which the mT air mass most likely formed.
_____________________________________________________
Other than low pressure, state two weather conditions associated with a low-pressure center.
A student used a sling psychrometer to measure the humidity of the air. If the relative humidity was 65% and
the dry-bulb temperature was 10°C, what was the wet-bulb temperature?
(1) 5°C
(2) 7°C
(3) 3°C
(4) 10°C
Which weather-station model shows an air pressure of 993.4 millibars?
An Earth science student observed the following weather conditions in Albany, New York, for 2 days: The
first day was warm and humid with southerly winds. The second day, the temperature was 15 degrees cooler,
the relative humidity had decreased, and wind direction was northwest. Which type of air mass most likely
had moved into the area on the second day?
(1) continental tropical
(2) continental polar
(3) maritime tropical
(4) maritime polar
Which map view best shows the movement of surface air around a low-pressure system in the Northern
Hemisphere?
Base your answers to the following two questions on the satellite image below, which shows cloud patterns
associated with weather fronts over the United States on a certain day. The states of Nebraska (NE) and New
York (NY) have been labeled.
At the time this satellite image was taken, what were the weather conditions in New York State?
(1) clear skies with no precipitation
(2) mostly cloudy in the northern part of the State and clear in the southern part
(3) cloudy with heavy precipitation
(4) very cloudy with no precipitation
Which type of front was producing the weather in Nebraska when this image was taken?
(1) cold front
(2) warm front
(3) stationary front
(4) occluded front
Base your answers to the following two questions on the temperature field map provided below.
The map shows air temperatures, in degrees Fahrenheit, recorded at the same time at weather stations across
North America. The air temperature at location A has been deliberately left blank.
On the map provided below, use smooth, curved solid lines to draw the 30°F, 40°F, and 50°F isotherms.
What is the most probable air temperature at location A?
Weather Systems Test Prep
Teacher Answer Key – Guide
Radiation with the wavelength 5.0 10–5 centimeters is usually visible as what color?
3 green
What is the visibility, in miles, shown on the station model below?
(1) 10
The map below shows high-pressure and low-pressure weather systems in the United States.
Which two lettered positions on the map are most likely receiving precipitation?
(2) B and D
Earth’s atmosphere is warmed when
(3) infrared radiation emitted by Earth is absorbed by carbon dioxide and water vapor in the
atmosphere
The passage of a cold front most recently influenced the weather of which two cities?
3 Kansas City and Minneapolis
Which two cities most likely have an air temperature closest to 75°F?
4 Cincinnati and Kansas City
The high-pressure system is most likely the center of a
1 continental polar air mass that originated in central Canada
Why does the region near the northern portion of the low-pressure center have cloudy skies and snow?
3 Air above this region is rising and cooling, and water vapor is condensing.
Which location has the highest velocity surface winds?
4 southeastern New York State
If the low-pressure system follows a typical storm track, the system will move toward the
2 northeast
In this Northern Hemisphere low-pressure system, the surface winds are circulating
3 counterclockwise and toward the center
The cross section below shows the flow of winds over a mountain ridge. The heaviest rainfall would most
likely occur on which side of this mountain and in which type of air mass?
(3) on the windward side, in a mT air mass
Various weather conditions at LaGuardia Airport in New York City are shown on the station model below.
What were the barometric pressure and weather conditions at the airport at the time of the observation?
(3) 1014.6 mb of pressure and smog
The properties of an air mass are mostly determined by the
(3) source region where the air mass formed
Which graph best represents the relative wavelengths of the different forms of electromagnetic energy?
Which front symbols are drawn correctly, based on the air masses shown?
If this weather system is following a normal storm track, the center of this low is most likely moving toward
which city?
(4) Plattsburgh
Which map shows the regions that are most likely experiencing the precipitation associated with this weather
system?
Which map best represents the surface wind pattern associated with high-pressure and low-pressure systems
in the Northern Hemisphere?
Which weather map symbol represents air masses that normally form just south of the United States over the
Caribbean Sea?
(4) mT
The map below shows the boundary between two air masses. The arrows show the direction in which the
boundary is moving. Which weather map uses the correct weather front symbol to illustrate this information?
If a low-pressure system follows a typical storm track across New York State, it will move toward the
(3) northeast
The diagram below shows conditions that commonly cause fog to form over land in coastal areas. A weather
station at the lighthouse records a temperature of 36°F and an air pressure of 1016.4 mb. Using the proper
weather map symbols, place the following information in the correct positions on the weather station model
below.
• Present weather
• Dewpoint
• Air pressure
• Wind direction
• Wind speed
The weather map symbols below are shown in the correct positions and in the proper format.
Note: The feathers for wind speed may be placed on either side of the staff.
Example response:
Which characteristic must a tropical storm have to be classified as a hurricane on the Safir-Simpson scale?
4 a windspeed of at least 119 km/hr
Which type of air mass is usually the source of the moisture that causes the strong winds and heavy rain
found in hurricanes?
(1) mT
The difference between the windspeed of a category-1 hurricane and the windspeed of a category-5 hurricane
is primarily caused by the differences in
3 air-pressure gradients
A hurricane with a central air pressure recorded at 28.70 inches has an expected storm surge of
(2) 2.0 m
Which graph best shows the relationship between the category number of a hurricane and the expected
damage from the storm?
Which map view best represents the pattern of isobar values, in millibars, and the pattern of wind flow,
shown by arrows, at Earth’s surface surrounding a Northern Hemisphere low-pressure center?
An observer measured the air temperature and the dewpoint and found the difference between them to be
12°C. One hour later, the difference between the air temperature and the dewpoint was found to be 4°C.
Which statement best describes the changes that were occurring?
(4) The relative humidity was increasing and the chance of precipitation was increasing.
Compared to a maritime tropical air mass, a maritime polar air mass has a
(4) lower temperature and less water vapor
Which weather instrument was used to measure the air pressures?
(4) barometer
Which location most likely recorded the highest wind speed?
(2) B
The air pressure recorded at point D was most likely
(3) 1010 mb
Explain why the warm, moist air is rising at the frontal boundary.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
Warm, moist air is less dense than cold, dry air.
Cold air is moving under the warm air and forcing the warm air upward.
State one process that causes clouds to form in this rising air.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
expanding air
cooling to the dewpoint
condensation
sublimation
Central Canada was the geographic source region for the cP air mass shown in the cross section. Identify the
most likely geographic source region for the mT air mass shown in the cross section.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
Gulf of Mexico
a warm ocean surface
What was the actual barometric pressure, according to the station model, to the nearest tenth of a millibar?
1002.1 mb
The winds shown by this station model were blowing from which compass direction and at what wind
speed?
from the south southeast (SSE) or southeast (SE) at 25 knots (±2)
The table below shows air-pressure readings taken at two cities, in the same region of the United States, at
noon on four different days. The wind speed in the region between cities A and B was probably the greatest
at noon on day
(3) 3
Which map shows the two correctly labeled air masses that frequently converge in the central plains to cause
tornadoes?
On map 1 below, draw the 30.0-inch snowfall isoline. Assume that the decimal point for each snowfall depth
marks the exact location where the snowfall was measured.
Correctly drawing the 30.0-inch snowfall isoline.
Example response:
Most residents knew this storm was coming. State one action a New York State resident should have taken to
prepare for a snow emergency.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— Residents should have bought extra supplies such as food, milk, and water.
— Residents should have gotten their battery-powered radio, flashlights, and candles ready.
— should have made sure emergency generators work
— Residents should have checked that they had enough fuel, oil, or wood for heat to last several days.
Using map 2, complete the table below by describing the weather conditions at Buffalo, New York.
Example response:
Describe the general surface wind pattern around the low-pressure center shown on map 2.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— Winds are counterclockwise and inward toward the low-pressure center.
— Winds are counterclockwise.
— Winds are blowing toward the center of the low.
Toward which compass direction would this low-pressure center most likely have moved if this system
followed a normal storm track?
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— east
— northeast
— north northeast
— east northeast
Winds are blowing from high-pressure to low-pressure systems over identical ocean surfaces. Which
diagram represents the area of greatest windspeed? (Arrows indicate wind direction.)
Under which set of atmospheric conditions does water usually evaporate at the fastest rate?
2 warm temperatures, high winds, and low humidity
The air mass over this location is best described as
3 warm with high humidity and low air pressure
Which graph best represents the temperature measured along line AB?
What is the total number of different kinds of weather fronts shown on this weather map?
(4) 4
Compared to the air over most of the map region, the air mass centered over Alabama is
1 warmer and more humid
Which sequence of events forms the clouds associated with this weather system?
2 Moist air rises, becomes saturated, and condenses on microscopic particles.
Which map best shows the areas in which precipitation is most likely occurring? [Darkened areas represent
precipitation.]
Which diagram shows the surface air movements most likely associated with the fronts?
In the visible spectrum, which color has the longest wavelength?
1 red
A maritime polar air mass approaching New York State would most likely bring
1 cool, moist air from the north
Polar air-mass characteristics differ from tropical air-mass characteristics primarily because the source
regions differ in their
3 latitude
Rain fell from the cloud because
2 the cloud’s water droplets combined and became large enough to fall
A decrease in the height of the mercury column usually indicates the approach of a
1 low-pressure system and stormy weather
Based on the information in this graph, the wind velocity is probably greatest between which two cities?
2 Rochester and Syracuse
Which graph represents the temperature change that will most likely occur at station A as the front passes in
the next three hours?
Which city has the greatest wind velocity?
4 Atlanta, Georgia
Which city has the highest relative humidity?
1 Mobile, Alabama
If the low-pressure center shown on the map follows a typical storm track, the system will move toward the
1 northeast
Which map correctly shows the movement of surface air associated with the high-pressure and low-pressure
systems?
Which Cross-sectional diagram of the lower atmosphere along line AB best represents the fronts and the
movement of air masses?
What is the air pressure at this location?
(2) 1002.9 mb
As a weather balloon released from the surface of Earth rises through the troposphere, the instruments it
carries will usually indicate that
1 temperature, atmospheric pressure, and concentration of water vapor decrease
The best inference that can be made from this diagram is that winds blow from regions of
2 high pressure to regions of low pressure
The surface winds shown in the diagram follow curving paths mainly due to Earth’s
2 rotation
Close spacing of isobars on a weather map is a good indicator of
4 high wind velocity
What is the air pressure indicated on the weather station model shown below?
(3) 1000.6 mb
The prevailing southwesterlies wind belt causes most low-pressure weather systems to travel across the
United States from the
1 southwest toward the northeast
Which map best represents the correct location of the 1004-mb, 1008-mb, and 1012-mb isobars?
The arrows on which map best represent the direction of surface winds associated with the high-pressure and
low-pressure systems?
Which city is located in an mT air mass?
1 Richmond, Virginia
Which city has the highest relative humidity?
3 Albany, New York
The arrows in the cross sections below represent the general direction of air movement. Which cross section
along a straight line between Cincinnati and Boston best represents the weather fronts, clouds, precipitation,
and general direction of air movement shown in the map?
Which geographic area is a common source region for cP air masses that move into New York State?
(2) central Canada
A parcel of air has a dry-bulb temperature of 24°C and a relative humidity of 55%. What is the dewpoint of
this parcel of air?
(2) 14°C
The surface winds in a typical Northern Hemisphere high-pressure system are generally moving
(3) clockwise away from the high-pressure center
On which weather map do the front symbols best represent the direction of movement of the cold front and
warm front associated with the low-pressure system shown on the map?
Describe the relationship between the altitude of the top of a thunderstorm cloud and the probability that hail
will be produced by that cloud.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— The higher the altitude of the top of the cloud, the greater the probability that hail will be
produced.
— direct relationship
Into which atmospheric temperature zone (layer) above New York State would the top of a thunderstorm
cloud extend to have a 100% probability of hail?
stratosphere
State the average number of days per year that Syracuse, New York, will experience hail.
one day per year
On the weather map station model below, use the correct symbols and proper format to indicate the six
weather conditions shown in the table.
Five or six weather conditions should be correctly indicated using the proper format.
Example of an acceptable student response:
Note: Feathers may be placed on either side of the staff. Do not allow credit for numbers with units.
State one way that humans could protect themselves from harm if a severe hail warning is issued for their
locality.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— Seek indoor shelter.
— If indoors, stay away from windows.
Which map best represents the surface wind pattern around a Northern Hemisphere high-pressure center?
Which city is most likely experiencing winds of the greatest velocity?
(3) Poughkeepsie
Surface winds are most likely blowing from
(3) Binghamton toward Danbury
On the map below, draw the path of the tornado and the direction the tornado moved, by following the
directions below.
• Place an X through the point for each of the six towns mentioned in the passage.
• Connect the Xs with a line in the order that each town was mentioned in the passage.
• Place an arrow at one end of your line to show the direction of the tornado’s movement.
An X should be correctly placed on each of the six towns, and a line correctly connects the six towns in
the order described in the article. The arrow should point eastward and does not need to be at the end
of the line. Note: Also allow credit if a symbol other than X is used.
Example response:
The tornado mentioned in this passage was produced by cold, dry air from Canada quickly advancing into
warm, moist air already in place over the northeastern United States. List the two-letter air-mass symbols that
would identify each of the two air masses responsible for producing this tornado.
Two correct responses should be listed. Allow credit for either upper- or lower-case letters. For
example, allow credit for MT or Mt or mt or mT. Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— cP and mT
— mT and cP
— mT and cA
— cA and mT
Note: Do not allow credit if the letters are reversed, e.g., Tm.
Which type of front was located at the boundary between the advancing cold, dry air mass and the warm,
moist air mass?
cold front
Using the Fujita Scale shown below and the information in the passage, complete the table below, by
assigning an F-Scale number for the tornado as it passed through each town given in the table.
Calculate the tornado’s average rate of travel, in miles per minute, between Vestal and Windsor, by using the
equation below. Express your answer to the nearest tenth.
0.7 mi/m
Which weather variable is measured by this instrument?
(4) air pressure
In the United States, most tornadoes are classified as intense
(2) low-pressure funnel clouds that spin counterclockwise
Which type of air mass is associated with warm, dry atmospheric conditions?
(2) cT
Earth’s surface winds generally blow from regions of higher
(2) air pressure toward regions of lower air pressure
What was the air pressure in Niagara Falls?
1020.1 mb
Explain how the weather conditions shown on the station models suggest that Utica had the greatest chance
of precipitation.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— The air temperature is closest to the dewpoint in Utica.
— The air pressure in Utica is lowest.
— The amount of cloud cover is 100% in Utica.
— The relative humidity is highest in Utica.
— Air pressure is decreasing in Utica.
New York City was experiencing a wind blowing from the south at 10 knots with hazy conditions limiting
visibility to ¾ of a mile. On the station model for New York City below, place, in the proper location and
format, the information below.
Example response:
Note: The feather for the wind speed may be placed on either side of the staff.
Calculate the rate of change in air pressure from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on April 3. Label your answer with the
correct units.
Any value from 2.8 to 3.2
Acceptable units include, but are not limited to:
— mb/h
— millibars/hour
What most likely caused the changes in air pressure for the period of time shown on the graph?
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— passage of a low-pressure system
— passage of a cold front
— arrival of a warm air mass followed by the arrival of a cold air mass
Which type of weather front is shown?
2 cold front
An air mass that originates over the northern Pacific Ocean and moves southward over the United States
would most likely be labeled on a weather map as
(1) mP
What is the primary cause of winds?
2 air pressure differences
The center of this cloud pattern is most likely the center of a
3 low-pressure system
The northeastward flow of the Gulf Stream Ocean current is caused primarily by
3 atmospheric winds
The weather characteristics of an air ass result primarily from its
1 geographic origin
Most surface ocean currents are caused by
3 prevailing winds
The wind is blowing from the right to left because the region to the right has a higher
2 air pressure
Which type of weather is indicated by closely spaced isobars on a weather map?
2 strong winds
What weather conditions are shown at location D?
2 cloudy skies with freezing rain
What type of weather front has entered New York State?
1 warm
Which weather station is located in the mT air mass associated with this storm?
(3) C
Which map best shows the surface winds associated with the high-pressure and low-pressure center on the
weather map?
Which arrow best shows the direction this storm center will move if it follows a normal storm track?
(1) W
Which weather condition most directly determines wind speeds at Earth’s surface?
(3) air-pressure gradient
Which statement best explains why an increase in the relative humidity of a parcel of air generally increases
the chance of precipitation?
(2) The air temperature is closer to the dewpoint, making cloud formation more likely.
Based on the temperatures shown, the relative humidity is
(3) 33%
Which station model shows the correct form for indicating a northwest wind at 25 knots and an air pressure
of 1023.7 mb?
The cross section below shows a side view of the area along line XY on the map. On lines 1 and 2 in the cross
section, place the appropriate two-letter air-mass symbols to identify the most likely type of air mass at each
of these locations.
Allow credit if both air masses are correct as shown below. Allow credit for either upper- or lowercase
letters. Note: Do not allow credit if the letters are reversed, such as, Tm.
(1) cP
(2) mT
State the name of the city for which this forecast was given.
Binghamton
Identify one action that people should take to protect themselves from lightning.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to:
— Move indoors.
— Do not use electrical equipment or telephones.
— Do not stand under tall objects.
Which type of weather is usually associated with a cP air mass, as shown near weather station C?
(3) dry and cool
Which cross section best represents the air masses, air movement, clouds, and precipitation occurring behind
and ahead of the warm front located between stations A and B?
The arrows on which map best represent the direction of surface winds associated with this low-pressure
system?
If this weather system follows a normal storm track, the low-pressure center (L) will generally move toward
the
(1) northeast
On the weather map station model provided below, using the proper format, record the six weather conditions
shown below.
Allow credit if five or six variables are correctly plotted. The feather for wind speed may be on either
side of the staff. Allow credit for any overcast indication that shades half of the circle.
Note: Do not allow credit for 1022.2 or 22.0 or 220 mb; 5 mi; .45 inches or 45.
An example of a correct response is shown below.
Which weather change is most likely indicated by rapidly falling air pressure?
(4) A storm is approaching.
What is the usual surface wind pattern around the eye of Northern Hemisphere hurricanes?
(4) counterclockwise and inward
Which air mass is normally associated with the formation of hurricanes?
(2) maritime tropical
Clouds form in the hurricane because the air is
(3) rising, expanding, and cooling
When the eye of this hurricane reaches 43° N latitude, this hurricane will most likely be pushed by planetary
winds toward the
(2) northeast
What type of front extends eastward from the low-pressure center?
occluded front
Below, complete the weather data table for Albany, New York, based on the station model shown on the
map.
Allow credit if all four weather variables are correct.
Note: Do not allow credit for “precipitation” as the response to present weather because it is too
general.
The correct responses are shown below.
Draw the 1024- and 1028-millibar isobars on the weather map provided below.
Allow credit if all three isobars are drawn correctly. If more than the three required isobars are
drawn, all isobars must be correct for full credit.
Note: Isobars do not have to be labeled. Isobars must touch all equal value points to receive credit.
What weather instrument was most likely used to measure these air pressures?
barometer or barograph
The map provided below shows six source regions for different air masses that affect the weather of North
America. The directions of movement of the air masses are shown. Using the standard two-letter air-mass
symbols from the Earth Science Reference Tables, label the air masses by writing the correct symbol in each
circle on the map.
Allow credit if five or six air-mass symbols are correct.
Note: Allow credit for either upper- or lower-case letters because it is difficult to identify some
students’ lower-case letters. For example, allow credit for MP or Mp or mp or mP. Do not allow
credit if the letters are reversed.
The correct responses are shown below.
In which direction do surface winds around low-pressure centers in the Northern Hemisphere generally
move?
(1) counterclockwise, toward the center of the low
Which weather station model shows the highest relative humidity?
Which graph best represents the temperature profile along a straight line from point A to point B?
On the weather map provided below, draw isotherms every 10°F, starting with 40°F and ending with 70°F.
Isotherms must extend to the edges of the map.
Allow credit for four correctly drawn isotherms. If more than the four required isotherms are drawn,
all isotherms must be correct to receive credit.
Note: Allow credit even if the isotherms are not labeled.
Allow credit if the isotherms extend to the edge of the map or if the isotherms extend only to the edge
of the continent and not into the ocean.
In the space provided below, calculate the temperature gradient between Richmond, Virginia, and Hatteras,
North Carolina, by following the directions below.
a Write the equation for gradient.
b Substitute data from the map into the equation.
c Calculate the average gradient and label your answer with the correct units.
a Allow no credit for writing the equation.
b Allow partial credit for correctly substituting both temperature and distance information (±10 miles)
into the equation written in part a. The student need not record the units. Acceptable responses
include, but are not limited to, these examples:
c Allow partial credit for correctly calculating the gradient, based on the student’s answer in part b.
Units that are consistent with the student’s answer in part b must be included to receive credit.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
State the actual air pressure, in millibars, shown at Miami, Florida.
1020.8 mb
State the general relationship between air temperature and latitude for locations shown on the map.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
Temperatures generally decrease as latitude increases.
Temperature and latitude are inversely related.
Explain why sleet is occurring in Zone B.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
Snow is melting and refreezing to sleet as it falls.
The rain freezes as it falls through colder air before it hits the ground.
The temperature, dewpoint, and wind direction are shown on the weather station model below. Using proper
format, add the information shown in the table to the model provided below.
Allow credit if four or five variables are drawn correctly.
Note: Feathers may be placed on either side of the staff.
Do not allow credit for numbers with labels.
As the storm moves eastward, the type of precipitation received in Syracuse changes.
State the type of precipitation that will immediately follow freezing rain.
sleet
Describe the general air movement and temperature change that caused the clouds associated with this storm
to form.
Allow credit for indicating that the air rises.
and
Allow credit for indicating that the air cools.
On a certain day, the isobars on a weather map are very close together over eastern New York State. To
make the people of this area aware of possible risk to life and property in this situation, the National Weather
Service should issue
(2) a high-wind advisory
A weather station records the following data:
Air pressure is 1,001.0 millibars.
Wind is from the south.
Wind speed is 25 knots.
Using the proper weather map symbols, place this information in the correct locations on the weather station
model provided below.
Allow credit if the student places the correct symbol for air pressure in the appropriate position.
Do not allow this credit if the decimal point or units are given.
and
Allow credit if the student draws the correct symbol for wind direction.
and
Allow credit for the correct symbol for wind speed. Feathers may be placed on either side of the staff.
The weather map below shows a typical midlatitude low-pressure system centered in Illinois.
a On the weather map provided below, indicate which boxed area has the highest surface air temperatures by
marking an X in one of the four boxes on the map.
b On the weather map provided below, draw an arrow to predict the normal storm track that this low-pressure
center would be expected to follow.
a Allow credit if the X is located in the area behind the warm front but ahead of the cold front even if
the X is not placed in the box.
b Allow credit if the arrow indicates the normal storm track to be toward the northeast. Allow credit if
the arrow points to any compass direction in between east and north-northeast.
Describe two characteristics of the circulation pattern of the surface winds around the center (eye) of a
Northern Hemisphere low-pressure hurricane.
Allow credit for a correct response describing the general direction of circulation. Acceptable
responses include, but are not limited to, this example:
counterclockwise
and
Allow credit for a correct response describing the inward movement toward the eye. Acceptable
responses include, but are not limited to, this example:
spirals toward the eye
The hurricane did not continue moving toward the same compass direction during the entire period shown by
the data table. Explain why the hurricane changed direction.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
The storm entered the prevailing southwesterly wind belt north of 30° N, which pushed it to the
northeast.
The hurricane moved into a different wind belt.
The hurricane traveled 2,600 kilometers during this 4-day period. Follow the directions given below.
a Write the equation used to determine the rate of change.
b Substitute data into the equation.
c Calculate the rate and label it with the proper units.
a Allow no credit for writing the equation.
b Allow credit for correctly substituting both acceptable values into the equation given in part a.
The student need not record the units. Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these
examples:
c Allow credit for correctly calculating the rate, based on the student’s answer in part b. Correct
units must be given. Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
An air mass classified as mP usually forms over which type of Earth surface?
(4) cool ocean
Between which two locations is the wind speed greatest?
(4) D and E
Surface winds within this low-pressure system generally flow
(3) counterclockwise and toward the center of the system
Which type of front extends eastward from the low-pressure center?
(2) warm
If the low-pressure center follows a typical storm track, it will move toward the
(4) northeast
On the weather station model provided above, draw the proper symbols to indicate a wind of 25 knots
blowing from the southeast.
Allow credit for correct symbols of both the wind direction and wind speed.
What is the actual air pressure shown by this weather station model?
998.5 millibars
a What specific type of precipitation is occurring at this weather station?
drizzle.
Note: Do not allow credit for rain.
b State one additional weather condition shown by the station model. Explain how this weather condition
provides evidence of high relative humidity.
Allow credit for a correct response. Responses must include both a weather condition and a
correct explanation to receive credit. Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these
examples:
Which list best identifies each air-mass source region?
(2) A — cP, B — mP, C — mT, D — cT
Which map best represents the direction of surface winds associated with the high- and low-pressure
systems?
On the lines provided below, fill in the correct information for each variable listed, based on this weather
station model.
The correct responses are shown below.
Air pressure: 1009.6 mb
Air temperature: 46°F
Amount of precipitation during last six hours: 0.15 or .15 inch
Cloud cover: 75%
Present weather: rain
Note: Do not allow credit for “precipitation” as the response to “present weather” because it is too
general.
Using the latitude and longitude data in the table, place an X on the map provided below for each location of
the hurricane during these 6 days. Connect all the Xs with a solid line.
Allow credit if five or six of the student’s Xs are plotted within ±1° of the stated positions and are
correctly connected with a line. The correct responses are shown below.
Label the September 15 (9/15) position of the hurricane on the map. Starting from this plotted position on
September 15, draw a dashed line on the map provided above to indicate the storm’s most likely path for the
next 5 days.
Allow credit for a correctly drawn line, even if it is not dashed. The line should end heading between
north and east. Allow credit even if the starting point for the student answer is incorrect or unlabeled,
but the drawn line ends heading between north and east above 30° N latitude.
Identify the weather instrument used to measure the air pressure associated with this hurricane.
barometer or barograph
Describe the relationship between air pressure and wind speed associated with this hurricane.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, this example:
As the air pressure in the hurricane gets lower, the wind speed increases.
On the frontal boundary line on the weather map provided above, draw the weather front symbol to represent
the front moving toward the southeast.
Allow credit for drawing the cold front symbol in the correct location. Allow credit even if the symbol
is not shaded.
On the same weather map, place an X centered on the geographic region that was most likely the source of
the warm, moist (mT) air mass.
Allow credit for an X located over the water in the diagonally lined area.
The correct responses are shown below.
In New York State, dry, cool air masses (cP) often interact with moist, warm air masses (mT).
Which statement correctly matches each air mass with its usual geographic source region?
(3) cP is from northern Canada and mT is from the Gulf of Mexico.
In which map does the arrow show the general direction that most low-pressure storm systems move across
New York State?
Which map best represents the global prevailing surface wind patterns responsible for generating Atlantic
Ocean currents?
What was the barometric pressure at Massena 3 hours earlier on that day?
(3) 1003.3 mb
This hurricane has a pattern of surface winds typical of all low-pressure systems in the Northern Hemisphere.
On the satellite photograph provided, draw three arrows on the clouds to show the direction of the surface
wind movement outside the eye of the hurricane.
Allow credit for arrows showing a counterclockwise direction. Arrows showing a counterclockwise
and outward direction are not acceptable. Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, this
example:
Cloud droplets form around small particles in the atmosphere. Describe how the hurricane clouds formed
from water vapor. Include the terms “dewpoint” and either “condensation” or “condense” in your answer.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
Rising air cools to the dewpoint and water vapor condenses.
Condensation occurs when the dewpoint is reached.
State the latitude and longitude of the hurricane’s eye. The compass directions must be included in the
answer.
27°30' N or 27.5° N (± 1°) and 95° W (± 1°). The student’s answer must include N and W.
At the location shown in the photograph, the hurricane had maximum winds recorded at 110 miles per hour.
Within a 24-hour period, the hurricane moved 150 miles inland and had maximum winds of only 65 miles
per hour. State why the wind velocity of a hurricane usually decreases when the hurricane moves over a land
surface.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
Over land there is less energy from evaporating water.
Winds decrease in strength due to friction with the land.
a State two dangerous conditions, other than hurricane winds, that could cause human fatalities as the
hurricane strikes the coast.
b Describe one emergency preparation humans could take to avoid a problem caused by one of these
dangerous conditions.
a Allow credit for each of two dangerous conditions. Acceptable responses include, but are not limited
to, these examples:
flooding and tornadoes
storm surge and collapsing structures
hail and lightning
downed electrical wires and flying debris
b Allow credit for a correct response. The response must be an emergency preparation that can be
taken prior to the approaching hurricane hitting the area. Acceptable responses include, but are not
limited to, these examples:
Evacuate to a higher elevation.
Take shelter.
Board up windows.
Build a seawall.
The air near the center of this low-pressure system usually will
(3) rise and form clouds
Which region is the probable source of the air mass labeled cP on the map?
(1) central Canada
Which type of front and frontal movement is shown on the weather map?
(2) cold front moving southeastward
The cP air mass is identified on the basis of its temperature and
(3) moisture content
On the grid provided below, graph the data shown on the data table by following the directions below.
a Mark the grid with a point showing the elevation of each weather station.
b Surround each point with the proper symbol from the symbol chart to show the amount of average annual
precipitation for the weather station.
a Allow credit if seven to ten elevations are correctly plotted (±50 m).
b Allow credit for surrounding each point with the correct symbol.
State the relationship between the elevation of weather stations A through E and the average annual
precipitation at these weather stations.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
As elevation increases from A to E, precipitation increases.
direct relationship
Although stations C and F are at the same elevation, they have very different amounts of average annual
precipitation. Explain how the prevailing wind direction might cause this difference.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
C is on the leeward side.
Prevailing winds cause air to rise at location F, creating more clouds and causing heavier rainfall.
On the station model provided below, using the proper format, record:
• the amount of cloud cover
• the barometric pressure
• the symbol for the present weather
Allow credit for full shading of the circle.
and
Allow credit for 962 written in the proper location. Allow no credit if a decimal point or mb label is
used.
and
Allow credit for the drizzle symbol (
) drawn in the proper location.
An Earth science class is preparing a booklet on emergency preparedness. State one safety measure that
should be taken to minimize danger from each of the following threats.
a Thunderstorm
b Tornado
c Volcanic eruption
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
a Seek indoor shelter.
Avoid high ground.
Stay in your car.
b Go to the cellar or the safest interior room.
Stay away from windows.
Open house windows.
c Evacuate the area.
Move away from sites directly downhill from the volcano.
What was the dewpoint at this time?
(3) –3°C
Students wish to study the effect of elevation above sea level on air temperature and air pressure.
They plan to hike in the Adirondack Mountains from Heart Lake, elevation 2,179 feet, to the peak of Mt.
Marcy, elevation 5,344 feet. Which instruments should they use to collect their data?
(4) thermometer and barometer
Weather-station measurements indicate that the dewpoint temperature and air temperature are getting farther
apart and that air pressure is rising. Which type of weather is most likely arriving at the station?
(3) cool, dry air
On the weather map provided below, draw a curved arrow through point  to show the general direction of
surface winds on that side of the low-pressure center.
Allow credit for an arrow showing counterclockwise direction of movement around the low and an
arrow curving inward toward the low.
Note: Allow credit for a correctly drawn arrow even if the arrow does not go through the center of the
X.
An example of an acceptable response is shown below.
State the relationship between isobar spacing on the map and wind velocity.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
Closely spaced isobars represent a region of high wind velocity.
As isobars become closer, wind speed increases.
Describe the five specific weather conditions for Charleston indicated by the station model on the weather
map. Complete the chart provided below and include appropriate units where necessary.
Allow credit if four or five answers including units are correct.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
Describe how clouds form when warm, humid air rises along the cold front.
a Include the terms dewpoint and either expansion or expands in your answer.
b State the phase change that occurs at the dewpoint.
a Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, this example:
Clouds form when rising air expands and cools to the dewpoint.
b Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
from gas to liquid
Water vapor condenses.
deposition
gas to solid
Which type of air mass usually contains the most moisture?
(1) mT
The isolines on the map represent values of air
(3) pressure
The strongest winds are closest to location
(1) A
Which type of front extends southward from the center of the low?
(4) cold
State the dewpoint.
14°C
State the change in relative humidity as the air temperature and the dewpoint get closer to the same value.
relative humidity increases
On another day, the student determined the dewpoint was 70°F. Record the dewpoint, using the proper
format, in the correct location on the weather station model provided below.
Allow credit for correctly indicating the dewpoint. Do not allow this credit if ° or °F is written.
Which atmospheric conditions would cause smoke from a campfire on a beach to blow toward the ocean?
(4) high air pressure over the land and low air pressure over the ocean
Which weather change usually occurs when the difference between the air temperature and the dewpoint
temperature is decreasing?
(3) The relative humidity increases.
Using the proper format, place the following data on the weather station model provided below.
Dewpoint = 74°F
Cloud cover = 100%
Allow credit for placing 74 in the proper location. Do not allow credit for 74° or 74°F.
and
For shading in the station circle completely.
How does the area of hurricane formation change from May to September?
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
The area of hurricane formation increases from May to September.
The area spreads eastward.
State one reason why most hurricane paths curve northeastward as hurricanes move north of 30° N latitude.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
Hurricanes turn northeast due to the planetary wind belt they move into.
The jet stream causes the path of most hurricanes to curve toward the northeast.
On the weather map provided below, place the proper front symbols on lines AB, BC, and BD. Place the front
symbols on the correct side of each line to show the direction of front movement.
Allow credit for the placement of the correct symbol on all three fronts, regardless of which side of the
line the symbols are on.
Line AB is an occluded front.
Line BC is a cold front.
Line BD is a warm front.
Name the geographic region over which the mT air mass most likely formed.
Gulf of Mexico or Atlantic Ocean
Other than low pressure, state two weather conditions associated with a low-pressure center.
Acceptable responses include, but are not limited to, these examples:
high relative humidity
greater cloud cover
increased precipitation
A student used a sling psychrometer to measure the humidity of the air. If the relative humidity was 65% and
the dry-bulb temperature was 10°C, what was the wet-bulb temperature?
(2) 7°C
Which weather-station model shows an air pressure of 993.4 millibars?
An Earth science student observed the following weather conditions in Albany, New York, for 2 days: The
first day was warm and humid with southerly winds. The second day, the temperature was 15 degrees cooler,
the relative humidity had decreased, and wind direction was northwest. Which type of air mass most likely
had moved into the area on the second day?
(2) continental polar
Which map view best shows the movement of surface air around a low-pressure system in the Northern
Hemisphere?
At the time this satellite image was taken, what were the weather conditions in New York State?
(1) clear skies with no precipitation
Which type of front was producing the weather in Nebraska when this image was taken?
(1) cold front
On the map provided below, use smooth, curved solid lines to draw the 30°F, 40°F, and 50°F isotherms.
Allow credit for correctly drawing all three required isotherms. If the student draws more than the
three required isotherms, all must be correct to receive credit.
Note: Allow credit even if the isotherms extend to the border of the map.
An example of correctly drawn isotherms is shown below.
What is the most probable air temperature at location A?
Allow credit for any temperature value between the student-drawn isotherms adjacent to point A.
Allow credit for the isotherm value only if the isotherm passes through point A.