Surface pressure and Pressure levels

Question 1

Atmospheric pressure in meteorology can be used to: (5)

Answer 1

1. Analyze typical atmospheric features
2. Estimate air motion
3. Identify significant weather patterns
4. Relate pressure to weather conditions
5. Set aircraft altimeters

Question 2

Describe the relationship between pressure, force and area

Answer 2

P(pascals)=F(newtons)/A(meters squared)

Question 3

state the 2 factors that control surface pressure

Answer 3

1. A change in temperature

2. A change in Moisture content

Question 4

How do heating and cooling the air affect surface pressure

Answer 4

Heating = Expansion = lower surface pressure
Cooling = contraction= higher surface pressure

Question 5

What are the 5 pressure patterns to identify on a surface chart?

Answer 5

High
Low
Trough
Ridge
Cols

Question 6

Explain the vertical variation in pressure with height

Answer 6

The pressure decreases much quicker in the lower levels of the atmosphere due to compression of the air due to the weight of the atmosphere.

Question 7

What are the standard pressure levels used in upper air charts?

Answer 7

850hpa, 700hpa, 500hpa, 250 hpa

Question 8

Lines drawn on upper air chart are called and represent what?

Answer 8

Contour lines are lines of equal height above MSL

Question 9

Define hydrostatic equilibrium

Answer 9

when the vertical component of the pressure gradient force is in exact balance with the force of gravity at that level

Question 10

Explain the relationship between The thickness of an atmospheric layer and the mean temperature,

Answer 10

the thickness of a layer varies directly with the mean temperature.

Question 11

State the 2 factors which affect the height of a pressure level.

Answer 11

The mean temperature and the value of MSL pressure

Question 12

As you proceed from the pole to the equator pressure levels will _____ and why

Answer 12

They will increase because the mean temperature is warmer and temperature is directly linked to pressure level height.