Definitions for topic 1: Climate and Weather

Question 1

weather

Answer 1

short-term/daily atmospheric conditions

Question 2

climate

Answer 2

long term average weather conditions observed over +- 30 years.

Question 3

meteorology

Answer 3

the scientific study of weather and climate

Question 4

mid-latitude cyclones

Answer 4

LP systems associated with meeting warm and cold air masses.

Question 5

Polar front

Answer 5

Boundary/transition zone between 2 diff air masses (warm + cold) at 60 degree latitude

Question 6

warm front

Answer 6

where warm air rises above heavier cold air

Question 7

cold front

Answer 7

where cold air wedges in under lighter warm air, causing it to rise.

Question 8

occluded front

Answer 8

where cold front overtakes warm front and warm air is isolated from surface.

Question 9

cyclogenesis

Answer 9

development (or strengthening) of cyclone circulation

Question 10

dissipate

Answer 10

lose energy/fade away

Question 11

tropical cyclone

Answer 11

intense LP system associated with extreme weather conditions.

Question 12

latent heat

Answer 12

energy released when water vapour condenses (into water droplets)

Question 13

vortex

Answer 13

rotating, whirling movement of air

Question 14

eye wall

Answer 14

the band of cloud surrounding the eye of a tropical cyclone

Question 15

storm surge

Answer 15

offshore rise of water (to abnormal levels) caused by strong winds of LP system (causes coastal flooding)