USCG Meterology

Question 1

1 The direction of the surface wind is __________.

A. directly from high pressure toward low pressure
B. directly from low pressure toward high pressure
C. from high pressure toward low pressure deflected by the earth’s rotation
D. from low pressure toward high pressure deflected by the earth’s rotation

Answer 1

C. from high pressure toward low pressure deflected by the earth’s rotation

Question 2

2 Wind direction may be determined by observing all of the following EXCEPT __________.

A. low clouds
B. waves
C. whitecaps
D. swells

Answer 2

D. swells

Question 3

3 What will a veering wind do?

A. Change direction in a clockwise manner in the Northern Hemisphere
B. Circulate about a low pressure center in a counterclockwise manner in the Northern Hemisphere
C. Vary in strength constantly and unpredictably
D. Circulate about a high pressure center in a clockwise manner in the Southern Hemisphere

Answer 3

A. Change direction in a clockwise manner in the Northern Hemisphere

Question 4

#4 A local wind which occurs during the daytime and is caused by the different rates of warming of land
and water is a \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

A. foehn
B. chinook
C. land breeze
D. sea breeze

Answer 4

D. sea breeze

Question 5

5 A katabatic wind blows __________.

A. up an incline due to surface heating
B. in a circular pattern
C. down an incline due to cooling of the air
D. horizontally between a high and a low pressure area

Answer 5

C. down an incline due to cooling of the air

Question 6

6 Which Beaufort force indicates a wind speed of 65 knots?

A. Beaufort force 0
B. Beaufort force 6.5
C. Beaufort force 12
D. Beaufort force 15

Answer 6

C. Beaufort force 12

Question 7

#7 On the pole side of the high pressure belt in each hemisphere, the pressure diminishes. The winds
along these gradients are diverted by the Earth's rotation toward the east and are known as the \_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

A. geostrophic winds
B. doldrums
C. horse latitudes
D. prevailing westerlies

Answer 7

D. prevailing westerlies

Question 8

8 In the doldrums you will NOT have __________.

A. high relative humidity
B. frequent showers and thunderstorms
C. steep pressure gradients
D. frequent calms

Answer 8

C. steep pressure gradients

Question 9

9 The area of strong westerly winds occurring between 40° S and 60° S latitude is called the ________.

A. polar easterlies
B. prevailing westerlies
C. roaring forties
D. jet streams

Answer 9

C. roaring forties

Question 10

#10 The belt of light and variable winds between the westerly wind belt and the northeast trade winds is
called the \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

A. subtropical high pressure belt
B. intertropical convergence zone
C. doldrum belt
D. polar frontal zone

Answer 10

A. subtropical high pressure belt

Question 11

11 The region of high pressure extending around the Earth at about 35° N latitude is called the _______.

A. prevailing westerlies
B. horse latitudes
C. troposphere
D. doldrums

Answer 11

B. horse latitudes

Question 12

#12 According to Buys Ballot's law, when an observer in the Northern Hemisphere experiences a
northwest wind, the center of low pressure is located to the \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

A. northeast
B. west-southwest
C. northwest
D. south-southeast

Answer 12

A. northeast

Question 13

13 Your position X is at LAT 35° S. Which winds are you experiencing? See Diagram: D009NG

A. Northeasterly
B. Northwesterly
C. Southeasterly
D. Southwesterly

Answer 13

A. Northeasterly

Question 14

#14 Your vessel is on course 180° T speed 22 knots. The apparent wind is from 70° off the port bow,
speed 20 knots. The true direction and speed of the wind are \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

A. 45° T, 21.0 knots
B. 51° T, 24.0 knots
C. 58° T, 21.2 knots
D. 64° T, 26.0 knots

Answer 14

B. 51° T, 24.0 knots

Question 15

15 In most cases, the direction of the apparent wind lies between the bow and __________.

A. the direction of the true wind
B. true north
C. the beam on the windward side
D. the beam on the lee side

Answer 15

A. the direction of the true wind

Question 16

16 The wind speed and direction observed from a moving vessel is known as __________.

A. coordinate wind
B. true wind
C. apparent wind
D. anemometer wind

Answer 16

C. apparent wind

Question 17

17 You are underway on course 050° T and your maximum speed is 13 knots. The eye of a hurricane

bears 120° T, 100 miles from your position. The hurricane is moving towards 265° T at 25 knots. What
course should you steer at 13 knots to have the maximum CPA?

A. 324° T
B. 306° T
C. 299° T
D. 276° T

Answer 17

A. 324° T

Question 18

#18 The usual sequence of directions in which a tropical cyclone moves in the Southern Hemisphere is
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

A. northwest, west, and south
B. southwest, south, and southeast
C. north, northwest, and east
D. west, northwest, and north

Answer 18

B. southwest, south, and southeast

Question 19

19 Which condition exists in the eye of a hurricane?

A. Wind rapidly changing direction
B. A temperature much lower than that outside the eye
C. Towering cumulonimbus clouds
D. An extremely low barometric pressure

Answer 19

D. An extremely low barometric pressure

Question 20

20 Tropical cyclones normally form within which of the following belts of latitude?

A. 5° to 15°
B. 15° to 30°
C. 30° to 45°
D. 45° to 60°

Answer 20

A. 5° to 15°

Question 21

#21 A hurricane moving northeast out of the Gulf passes west of your position. You could expect all of the
following EXCEPT\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

A. higher than normal swells
B. high winds
C. winds veering from south, through west, to northwest
D. gradual pressure gradient

Answer 21

D. gradual pressure gradient

Question 22

#22 You are enroute from Puerto Rico to New York. A hurricane makes up and is approaching. If the wind
veers steadily, this indicates that your vessel is \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

A. in the dangerous semicircle
B. in the navigable semicircle
C. directly in the path of the storm
D. in the storm center

Answer 22

A. in the dangerous semicircle

Question 23

23 Low pressure disturbances, which travel along the intertropical convergence zone, are called _____.

A. permanent waves
B. tidal waves
C. tropical waves
D. tropical storms

Answer 23

C. tropical waves

Question 24

#24 The approximate distance to a storm center can be determined by noting the hourly rate of fall of the
barometer. If the rate of fall is 0.08-0.12 inches, what is the approximate distance to the storm center?

A. 50 to 80 miles
B. 80 to 100 miles
C. 100 to 150 miles
D. 150 to 250 miles

Answer 24

B. 80 to 100 miles

Question 25

25 What kind of weather would you expect to accompany the passage of a tropical wave?

A. Heavy rain and cloudiness
B. Good weather
C. A tropical storm
D. Dense fog

Answer 25

A. Heavy rain and cloudiness

Question 26

26 Tropical cyclones are classified by form and intensity. Which system does not have closed isobars?

A. Hurricane
B. Tropical disturbance
C. Tropical depression
D. Cyclone

Answer 26

B. Tropical disturbance

Question 27

27 A tropical wave is usually preceded by __________.

A. tropical storms
B. good weather
C. heavy rain and cloudiness
D. heavy seas

Answer 27

B. good weather

Question 28

28 Ocean swells originating from a typhoon can move ahead of it at speeds near __________.

A. 10 knots
B. 20 knots
C. 30 knots
D. 50 knots

Answer 28

D. 50 knots

Question 29

#29 The highest frequency of tropical cyclones in the North Atlantic Ocean occurs during \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.
A. January, February and March
B. April, May and June
C. August, September and October
D. July, November and December

Answer 29

C. August, September and October

Question 30

30 Recurvature of a hurricane’s track usually results in the forward speed __________.

A. increasing
B. decreasing
C. remaining the same
D. varying during the day

Answer 30

A. increasing

Question 31

#31 You have determined that you are in the right semicircle of a tropical cyclone in the Northern
Hemisphere. What action should you take to avoid the storm?

A. Place the wind on the starboard quarter and hold that course.
B. Place the wind on the port quarter and hold that course.
C. Place the wind on the port bow and hold that course.
D. Place the wind on the starboard bow and hold that course.

Answer 31

D. Place the wind on the starboard bow and hold that course.

Question 32

32 The pressure gradient between the horse latitudes and doldrums runs __________.

A. east to west
B. north to south
C. northeast to southwest
D. northwest to southeast

Answer 32

B. north to south

Question 33

33 The diurnal pressure variation is most noticeable in the __________.

A. polar regions
B. horse latitudes
C. roaring forties
D. doldrums

Answer 33

D. doldrums

Question 34

#34 A line on a weather chart connecting places which have the same barometric pressure is called an
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

A. isotherm
B. isallobar
C. isobar
D. isotope

Answer 34

C. isobar

Question 35

35 Little or no change in the barometric reading over a twelve hour period indicates __________.

A. stormy weather is imminent
B. that present weather conditions will continue
C. a defect in the barometer
D. increasing wind strength

Answer 35

B. that present weather conditions will continue

Question 36

36 The daily recurring pattern of pressure changes most noticeable in low latitudes is the __________.

A. daily lapse reading
B. diurnal variation of pressure
C. pressure tendency
D. synoptic pressure

Answer 36

B. diurnal variation of pressure

Question 37

#37 It is desirable that a vessel encountering hurricane or typhoon conditions sends weather reports to
the closest meteorological service at least every \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

A. hour
B. 3 hours
C. 6 hours
D. 8 hours

Answer 37

B. 3 hours

Question 38

38 At 1800 ZT on 31 October, your position is LAT 24° 50’ N, LONG 92° 37’ W. You are preparing a

weather report form, WS Form B-80. How should you encode the first three groups after the call sign if
you estimate the wind? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 31123, 99929, 70249
B. 31183, 99249, 79237
C. 31243, 99249, 70926
D. 01003, 99248, 70926

Answer 38

D. 01003, 99248, 70926

Question 39

#39 While taking weather observations, you determine that the wind is coming from the west. In the
weather log, you would record the wind direction as \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

A. 000°
B. 090°
C. 180°
D. 270°

Answer 39

D. 270°

Question 40

40 What weather conditions would you expect to find at position A? See Diagram: D049NG

A. Winds NW-W at 15 knots, partly cloudy, and slight seas
B. winds SW-S at 20 knots, heavy rain, and rough seas
C. Winds calm, light rain, and calm seas
D. Winds NE-E at 20 knots, heavy rain, and rough seas

Answer 40

A. Winds NW-W at 15 knots, partly cloudy, and slight seas

Question 41

#41 While taking weather observations, you determine that the wind is blowing from the northeast. You
would record the wind direction in the weather log as \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

A. 045°
B. 090°
C. 135°
D. 225°

Answer 41

A. 045°

Question 42

42 When reporting wind direction, you should give the direction in __________.

A. true degrees
B. magnetic compass degrees
C. relative degrees
D. isobaric degrees

Answer 42

A. true degrees

Question 43

43 When drawing a weather map and an isobar crosses a front, the isobar is drawn __________.

A. perpendicular to the front
B. kinked and pointing away from the low
C. kinked and pointing towards the low
D. kinked and pointing towards the high for a warm front only

Answer 43

B. kinked and pointing away from the low

Question 44

44 Cyclones tend to move __________.

A. perpendicular to the isobars in their warm sectors
B. parallel to the isobars in their warm sectors
C. parallel to the line of the cold front
D. perpendicular to the line of the cold front

Answer 44

B. parallel to the isobars in their warm sectors

Question 45

45 Temperature and moisture characteristics are modified in a warm or cold air mass due to _________.

A. pressure changes in the air mass
B. movement of the air mass
C. the heterogeneous nature of the air mass
D. upper level atmospheric changes

Answer 45

B. movement of the air mass

Question 46

46 The flow of air around an anticyclone in the Southern Hemisphere is __________.

A. clockwise and outward
B. counterclockwise and outward
C. clockwise and inward
D. counterclockwise and inward

Answer 46

B. counterclockwise and outward

Question 47

47 A cyclone in its final stage of development is called a(n) __________.

A. tornado
B. anticyclone
C. occluded cyclone or occluded front
D. polar cyclone

Answer 47

C. occluded cyclone or occluded front

Question 48

48 A warm air mass is characterized by __________.

A. stability
B. instability
C. gusty winds
D. good visibility

Answer 48

A. stability

Question 49

49 You are located within a stationary high pressure area. Your aneroid barometer is falling very slowly. This indicates a(n)________.

A. wind shift of 180°
B. large increase in wind velocity
C. decrease in the pressure of the system
D. increase in the intensity of the system

Answer 49

C. decrease in the pressure of the system

Question 50

50 A frontal thunderstorm is caused by __________.

A. pronounced local heating
B. wind being pushed up a mountain
C. a warm air mass rising over a cold air mass
D. an increased lapse rate caused by advection of warm surface air

Answer 50

C. a warm air mass rising over a cold air mass

Question 51

51 The steepness of a cold front depends on __________.

A. the direction of wind around the front
B. its velocity
C. the temperature of the air behind the front
D. the precipitation generated by the front

Answer 51

B. its velocity

Question 52

52 When crossing a front isobars tend to __________.

A. change from smooth curves within the air mass to sharp bends at the front
B. change from sharp bends within the air mass to smooth curves at the front
C. pass smoothly across the front with no change
D. become closer together at the front and pass through in straight lines

Answer 52

A. change from smooth curves within the air mass to sharp bends at the front

Question 53

53 With the passage of an occluded front the temperature __________.

A. rises rapidly
B. remains about the same
C. drops rapidly
D. depends on whether warm type or cold type occlusion

Answer 53

D. depends on whether warm type or cold type occlusion

Question 54

54 When a cold air mass and a warm air mass meet, and there is no horizontal motion of either air mass, it is called a(n)________.

A. cold front
B. occluded front
C. stationary front
D. warm front

Answer 54

C. stationary front

Question 55

55 When a warm air mass is adjacent to a cold air mass, the separation line between the two is called a(n) __________.

A. front
B. isobar
C. isotherm
D. equipotential line

Answer 55

A. front

Question 56

56 When cold air displaces warm air you have a(n) __________.

A. cold front
B. occluded front
C. stationary front
D. warm front

Answer 56

A. cold front

Question 57

57 The fog most commonly encountered at sea is called __________.

A. conduction fog
B. radiation fog
C. frontal fog
D. advection fog

Answer 57

D. advection fog

Question 58

58 What will act to dissipate fog?

A. Upwelling cold water
B. Advection of warm air over a colder surface
C. Rain that is warmer than air
D. Downslope motion of an air mass along a coast

Answer 58

D. Downslope motion of an air mass along a coast

Question 59

59 Radiation fog __________.

A. always forms over water
B. is formed by a temperature inversion
C. is thinnest at the surface
D. dissipates during the evening

Answer 59

B. is formed by a temperature inversion

Question 60

60 Fog is most commonly associated with a(n) __________.

A. warm front at night
B. low pressure area
C. anticyclone
D. cold front in the spring

Answer 60

A. warm front at night

Question 61

61 Fog forms when the air __________.

A. is 50% water saturated
B. is 90% water saturated
C. temperature is greater than the dew point temperature
D. temperature is equal to, or below the dew point temperature

Answer 61

D. temperature is equal to, or below the dew point temperature

Question 62

62 The appearance of nimbostratus clouds in the immediate vicinity of a ship at sea would be accompanied by which of the following conditions?

A. Rain and poor visibility
B. Dropping barometric pressure and backing wind in the Northern Hemisphere
C. High winds and rising sea
D. Severe thunderstorms

Answer 62

A. Rain and poor visibility

Question 63

63 Uniform, grayish-white cloud sheets that cover large portions of the sky, and are responsible for a large percentage of the precipitation in the temperate latitudes, are called __________.

A. altostratus
B. altocumulus
C. cirrostratus
D. cirrocumulus

Answer 63

A. altostratus

Question 64

64 Which cloud type is normally associated with thunderstorms?

A. Cirrus
B. Stratus
C. Cumulus
D. Cumulonimbus

Answer 64

D. Cumulonimbus

Question 65

65 If the sky was clear, with the exception of a few cumulus clouds, it would indicate __________.

A. rain
B. hurricane weather
C. fair weather
D. fog setting in

Answer 65

C. fair weather

Question 66

#66 The form of cloud often known as "mackerel sky" which is generally associated with fair weather is \_\_\_\_\_\_.
A. nimbostratus
B. stratus
C. cirrocumulus
D. cumulonimbus

Answer 66

C. cirrocumulus

Question 67

67 A thin, whitish, high cloud popularly known as “mares’ tails” is __________.

A. altostratus
B. stratus
C. cumulus
D. cirrus

Answer 67

D. cirrus

Question 68

68 The bases of middle clouds are located at altitudes of between __________.

A. 3,000 to 6,500 feet (914 to 1981 meters)
B. 6,500 to 20,000 feet (1981 to 6096 meters)
C. 10,000 to 35,000 feet (3048 to 10,668 meters)
D. 20,000 to 60,000 feet (6096 to 18,288 meters)

Answer 68

B. 6,500 to 20,000 feet (1981 to 6096 meters)

Question 69

69 Which list of clouds is in sequence, from highest to lowest in the sky?

A. Altostratus, cirrostratus, stratus
B. Cirrostratus, altostratus, stratus
C. Stratus, cirrostratus, altostratus
D. Altostratus, stratus, cirrostratus

Answer 69

B. Cirrostratus, altostratus, stratus

Question 70

70 A low, uniform layer of cloud resembling fog, but not resting on the ground, is called __________.

A. cumulus
B. nimbus
C. stratus
D. cirrus

Answer 70

C. stratus

Question 71

71 Which type of cloud is among the most dependable for giving an indication of an approaching weather system?

A. Cumulus
B. Altostratus
C. Cumulostratus
D. Nimbus

Answer 71

B. Altostratus

Question 72

72 Clouds are classified according to their __________.

A. size
B. moisture content
C. altitude and how they were formed
D. location in a front

Answer 72

C. altitude and how they were formed

Question 73

73 Cloud formations are minimal when the __________.

A. surface temperature and temperature aloft are equal
B. surface temperature and temperature aloft differ greatly
C. barometric pressure is very low
D. relative humidity is very high

Answer 73

A. surface temperature and temperature aloft are equal

Question 74

74 Relative humidity is the percentage of water vapor that is in the air as compared to the maximum amount it can hold at __________.

A. a specific barometric pressure
B. a specific temperature
C. a specific wind speed
D. any time

Answer 74

B. a specific temperature

Question 75

75 The dew point is reached when the __________.

A. temperature of the air equals the temperature of the seawater
B. atmospheric pressure is 14.7 lbs. per square inch
C. relative humidity reaches 50%
D. air becomes saturated with water vapor

Answer 75

D. air becomes saturated with water vapor

Question 76

#76 The dry-bulb temperature is 78° F and the wet-bulb temperature is 62° F. What is the relative humidity?
A. 16%
B. 24%
C. 39%
D. 79%

Answer 76

C. 39%

Question 77

77 The dew point temperature is __________.

A. always higher than the air temperature
B. always lower than the air temperature
C. equal to the difference between the wet and dry bulb temperatures
D. the temperature at which the air is saturated with water vapor

Answer 77

D. the temperature at which the air is saturated with water vapor

Question 78

78 As the temperature for a given mass of air increases, the __________.

A. dew point increases
B. dew point decreases
C. relative humidity increases
D. relative humidity decreases

Answer 78

D. relative humidity decreases

Question 79

79 Relative humidity is defined as __________.

A. the maximum vapor content the air is capable of holding
B. the minimum vapor content the air is capable of holding
C. the ratio of the actual vapor content at the current temperature to the air’s vapor holding capability
D. the relation of the moisture content of the air to barometric pressure

Answer 79

C. the ratio of the actual vapor content at the current temperature to the air’s vapor holding capability

Question 80

80 The ocean bottom that extends from the shoreline out to an area where there is a marked change in slope to a greater depth is the __________.

A. abyssal plain
B. continental shelf
C. borderland
D. offshore terrace

Answer 80

B. continental shelf

Question 81

81 You are anchored in the Aleutian Island chain and receive word that a tsunami is expected to strike the islands in six hours. What is the safest action?

A. Get underway and be in deep, open-ocean water when the tsunami arrives.
B. Increase the scope of the anchor cable and drop the second anchor underfoot at short stay.
C. Get underway and be close inshore on the side of the island away from the tsunami.
D. Plant both anchors with about a 60° angle between them, and let out a long scope to each anchor.

Answer 81

A. Get underway and be in deep, open-ocean water when the tsunami arrives.

Question 82

82 The rise and fall of the ocean’s surface due to a distant storm is known as __________.

A. sea
B. waves
C. fetch
D. swell

Answer 82

D. swell

Question 83

83 The speed at which an ocean wave system advances is called __________.

A. wave length
B. ripple length
C. group velocity
D. wave velocity

Answer 83

C. group velocity

Question 84

84 The largest waves (heaviest chop) will usually develop where the wind blows __________.

A. at right angles to the flow of the current
B. against the flow of the current
C. in the same direction as the flow of the current
D. over slack water

Answer 84

B. against the flow of the current

Question 85

85 In shallow water, waves that are too steep to be stable, causing the crests to move forward faster than the rest of the wave, are called __________.

A. rollers
B. breakers
C. white caps
D. surfers

Answer 85

B. breakers

Question 86

86 Three or four feet of the total height of a storm surge in a hurricane can be attributed to __________.

A. an increase in temperature
B. an increase in the wave period
C. the wind velocity
D. the decrease in atmospheric pressure

Answer 86

D. the decrease in atmospheric pressure

Question 87

87 On mid-ocean waters, the height of a wind-generated wave is not affected by the __________.

A. water depth exceeding 100 feet
B. fetch
C. wind’s velocity
D. duration of the wind

Answer 87

A. water depth exceeding 100 feet

Question 88

88 The height of a wave is the vertical distance __________.

A. from the still water plane to the crest
B. from the still water plane to the trough
C. from crest to trough
D. between water levels at one-quarter of the wave’s length

Answer 88

C. from crest to trough

Question 89

89 A light, feathery deposit of ice caused by the sublimation of water vapor directly into the crystalline form, on objects whose temperatures are below freezing, is called __________.

A. dew
B. frost
C. glaze
D. snow

Answer 89

B. frost

Question 90

90 Which condition(s) is(are) necessary for the formation of dew?

A. Clear skies
B. Calm air
C. Earth’s surface cooler than the dew point of the air
D. All of the above

Answer 90

D. All of the above

Question 91

91 Mechanical lifting of air by the upslope slant of the terrain is called __________.

A. vertical lifting
B. convective lifting
C. advective lifting
D. topographic lifting

Answer 91

D. topographic lifting

Question 92

92 The region containing 3/4 of the mass of the atmosphere and the region to which are confined such phenomena as clouds, storms, precipitation and changing weather conditions is called __________.

A. stratosphere
B. troposphere
C. stratopause
D. tropopause

Answer 92

B. troposphere

Question 93

93 The Earth’s irregular heating is caused by __________.

A. the time of day
B. the seasons
C. geography
D. All of the above

Answer 93

D. All of the above

Question 94

94 You are on a voyage from New Orleans to Boston. When navigating off the Florida coast, you will get the greatest benefit from the Gulf Stream if you navigate __________.

A. about 45 miles east of Cape Canaveral
B. about 25 miles east of Daytona Beach
C. along the 50-fathom curve
D. close inshore between Fowey Rocks and Jupiter Inlet

Answer 94

A. about 45 miles east of Cape Canaveral

Question 95

95 Which current would you encounter on a direct passage from London, England, to Cape Town, South Africa?

A. Falkland Current
B. Brazil Current
C. Norway Current
D. Benguela Current

Answer 95

D. Benguela Current

Question 96

96 The Brazil Current flows in which general direction?

A. Northwesterly
B. Southwesterly
C. Southeasterly
D. Northerly

Answer 96

B. Southwesterly

Question 97

97 On a voyage from Halifax, N.S., to Dakar, West Africa, the Canary Current will __________.

A. set the vessel to the left
B. set the vessel to the right
C. offer resistance in the form of a head current
D. furnish additional thrust in the form of a fair or following current

Answer 97

B. set the vessel to the right

Question 98

98 The current that, in many respects, is similar to the Gulf Stream is the __________.

A. Kuroshio Current
B. California Current
C. Oyashio Current
D. Benguela Current

Answer 98

A. Kuroshio Current

Question 99

99 Which ocean current is “warm” based on the latitude in which it originates and on the effect it has on climate?

A. Kuroshio Current
B. Benguela Current
C. Peru Current
D. California Current

Answer 99

A. Kuroshio Current

Question 100

100 Cold water flowing southward through the western part of the Bering Strait between Alaska and Siberia is joined by water circulating counterclockwise in the Bering Sea to form the __________.

A. Alaska Current
B. Subarctic Current
C. Kuroshio Current
D. Oyashio Current

Answer 100

D. Oyashio Current

Question 101

#101 - USCG 887
Which current would you encounter on a direct passage from southern Africa to Argentina, South America? 

A. South Atlantic
B. South Equatorial
C. Agulhas
D. Guinea

Answer 101

A. South Atlantic

Question 102

#102 - USCG 897
What current flows southward along the west coast of the United States and causes extensive fog in that area?

A. Davidson Current
B. North Pacific Current
C. Alaska Current
D. California Current

Answer 102

D. California Current

Question 103

103 In which month will the equatorial counter current be strongest?

A. January
B. April
C. August
D. October

Answer 103

C. August

Question 104

104 As the South Equatorial Current approaches the east coast of Africa, it divides with the main part flowing south to form the warm __________.

A. Agulhas Current
B. Canary Current
C. Benguela Current
D. Madagascar Current

Answer 104

A. Agulhas Current

Question 105

105 The set of the equatorial countercurrent is generally to the __________.

A. north
B. east
C. southwest
D. northwest

Answer 105

B. east

Question 106

106 The cold ocean current which meets the warm Gulf Stream between latitudes 40° and 43° N to form the “cold wall” is called the __________..

A. North Cape Current
B. Labrador Current
C. Greenland Current
D. North Atlantic Current

Answer 106

B. Labrador Current

Question 107

107 The Humboldt Current flows in which direction?

A. North
B. South
C. East
D. West

Answer 107

A. North

Question 108

108 On an Atlantic Ocean voyage from New York to Durban, South Africa, you should expect the Agulhas Current to present a strong __________.

A. offshore set
B. onshore set
C. head current
D. fair or following current

Answer 108

C. head current

Question 109

109 In the Sargasso Sea there are large quantities of seaweed and no well defined currents. This area is located in the __________.

A. Central North Atlantic Ocean
B. Caribbean Sea
C. Western North Pacific Ocean
D. area off the west coast of South America

Answer 109

A. Central North Atlantic Ocean

Question 110

110 Which current is responsible for the movement of icebergs into the North Atlantic shipping lanes?

A. Iceland Current
B. Baltic Current
C. Labrador Current
D. Baffin Current

Answer 110

C. Labrador Current

Question 111

111 A coastal current __________.

A. is generated by waves striking the beach
B. flows outside the surf zone
C. flows in a circular pattern
D. is also known as a longshore current

Answer 111

B. flows outside the surf zone

Question 112

112 When a current flows in the opposite direction to the waves, the wave __________.

A. length is increased
B. height is increased
C. velocity increases
D. length is unchanged

Answer 112

B. height is increased

Question 113

113 Which statement(s) concerning the effect of Coriolis force on ocean currents is(are) correct?

A. The deflection of the current is to the left in the Northern Hemisphere.
B. The Coriolis force is greater in the lower latitudes.
C. The Coriolis force is more effective in deep water.
D. All of the above

Answer 113

C. The Coriolis force is more effective in deep water.

Question 114

114 Generally speaking, a ship steaming across the North Pacific from Japan to Seattle is likely to experience __________.

A. adverse currents for practically the entire crossing
B. favorable currents for practically the entire crossing
C. favorable currents in the summer months and adverse currents in the winter months
D. variable currents having no significant effect on the total steaming time

Answer 114

B. favorable currents for practically the entire crossing

Question 115

115 The speed of an ocean current is dependent on __________.

A. the density of the water
B. the air temperature
C. the presence of a high pressure area near it
D. underwater soil conditions

Answer 115

A. the density of the water

Question 116

116 How long would a steady wind need to blow in order to create a wind driven current?

A. 2 hours
B. 6 hours
C. 12 hours
D. 18 hours

Answer 116

C. 12 hours

Question 117

117 Hurricanes may move in any direction. However, it is rare and generally of short duration when a hurricane in the Northern Hemisphere moves toward the __________.

A. west or northwest
B. northeast
C. southeast
D. north

Answer 117

C. southeast

Question 118

118 How can you estimate the position of a tropical storm’s center?

A. With a radio weather bulletin or weather fax
B. using shipboard radar
C. observe the wind direction and apply Buys Ballot’s law
D. All of the above

Answer 118

D. All of the above

Question 119

119 If a hurricane several hundred miles away is moving in your general direction your barometer would

A. start to rise rapidly
B. start to fall gradually
C. rise slowly, begin “pumping” and then start a slow, steady fall
D. remain steady

Answer 119

B. start to fall gradually

Question 120

120 A easterly wave is located 200 miles due west of your position, which is north of the equator. Where will the wave be in 24 hours?

A. Farther away to the west
B. Farther away to the east
C. In the same place
D. Closer and to the west

Answer 120

A. Farther away to the west

Question 121

121 What wind reverses directions seasonally?

A. Monsoon winds
B. Hooked trades
C. Jet stream
D. Secondary winds

Answer 121

A. Monsoon winds

Question 122

122 In the Northern Hemisphere, a wind that shifts counterclockwise is a __________.

A. veering wind
B. backing wind
C. reverse wind
D. chinook wind

Answer 122

B. backing wind

Question 123

123 Which wind results from a land mass cooling more quickly at night than an adjacent water area?

A. Coastal breeze
B. Sea breeze
C. Land breeze
D. Mistral

Answer 123

C. Land breeze

Question 124

124 In reading a weather map, closely spaced pressure gradient lines would indicate __________.

A. high winds
B. high overcast clouds
C. calm or light winds
D. fog or steady rain

Answer 124

A. high winds

Question 125

125 The direction of prevailing winds in the Northern hemisphere is caused by the __________.

A. magnetic field at the North Pole
B. Gulf Stream
C. Earth’s rotation
D. Arctic cold fronts

Answer 125

C. Earth’s rotation

Question 126

126 The best estimate of the wind direction at sea level can be obtained from observing the direction of the __________.

A. cloud movement
B. vessel heading
C. waves
D. swells

Answer 126

C. waves

Question 127

127 Which wind pattern has the most influence over the movement of frontal weather systems over the North American continent?

A. Subpolar easterlies
B. Northeast trades
C. Prevailing westerlies
D. Dominant southwesterly flow

Answer 127

C. Prevailing westerlies

Question 128

128 The prevailing winds in the band of latitude from approximately 5° N to 30° N are the __________.

A. prevailing westerlies
B. northeast trade winds
C. southeast trade winds
D. doldrums

Answer 128

B. northeast trade winds

Question 129

129 The horse latitudes are characterized by __________.

A. weak pressure gradients and light, variable winds
B. the formation of typhoons or hurricanes in certain seasons
C. steady winds in one direction for six months followed by wind reversal for the next six months
D. steady winds generally from the southeast in the Southern Hemisphere

Answer 129

A. weak pressure gradients and light, variable winds

Question 130

130 On the pole side of the trade wind belt, there is an area of high pressure with weak pressure gradients and light, variable winds. This area is called the __________.

A. prevailing westerlies
B. geostrophic winds
C. doldrums
D. horse latitudes

Answer 130

D. horse latitudes

Question 131

131 The winds of the “roaring forties” are strongest near __________.

A. 40° N
B. 50° N
C. 40° S
D. 50° S

Answer 131

D. 50° S

Question 132

132 You are steaming west in the North Atlantic in an extratropical cyclonic storm, and the wind is dead ahead. According to the law of Buys Ballot, the center of low pressure lies to the __________.

A. north
B. south
C. east
D. west

Answer 132

A. north

Question 133

133 Your vessel is on course 150° T, speed 17 knots. The apparent wind is from 40° off the starboard bow, speed 15 knots. What is the speed of the true wind?

A. 9.0 knots
B. 10.2 knots
C. 11.0 knots
D. 12.0 knots

Answer 133

C. 11.0 knots

Question 134

134 A wind vane on a moving vessel shows __________.

A. dead reckoning wind direction
B. true wind direction
C. apparent wind direction
D. estimated wind direction

Answer 134

C. apparent wind direction

Question 135

135 In the relatively calm area near the hurricane center, the seas are __________.

A. moderate but easily navigated
B. calm
C. mountainous and confused
D. mountainous but fairly regular as far as direction is concerned

Answer 135

C. mountainous and confused

Question 136

136 Tropical cyclones do not form within 5° of the Equator because __________.

A. there are no fronts in that area
B. it is too hot
C. it is too humid
D. of negligible Coriolis force

Answer 136

D. of negligible Coriolis force

Question 137

137 When a hurricane passes over colder water or land and loses its tropical characteristics, the storm becomes a(n) __________.

A. high pressure area
B. extratropical low-pressure system
C. tropical storm
D. easterly wave

Answer 137

B. extratropical low-pressure system

Question 138

138 If it is impossible to avoid a hurricane in the Northern Hemisphere, the most favorable place to be when the storm passes is in __________.

A. the dangerous semicircle
B. the eye (center) of the storm
C. that half of the storm lying to the right of the storm’s path
D. that half of the storm lying to the left of the storm’s path

Answer 138

D. that half of the storm lying to the left of the storm’s path

Question 139

139 Which condition would NOT indicate the approach of a tropical storm?

A. Long, high swells
B. Cirrus clouds
C. Halos about the Sun or Moon
D. Decrease in wind velocity

Answer 139

D. Decrease in wind velocity

Question 140

140 In the Northern Hemisphere, what type of cloud formations would you expect to see to the west of an approaching tropical wave?

A. Cumulus clouds lined up in rows extending in a northeast to southwest direction
B. High altostratus clouds in the morning hours
C. Cirrostratus clouds lined up in rows extending in a northeast to southwest direction
D. Cirrostratus clouds lined up in rows extending in a north to south direction

Answer 140

A. Cumulus clouds lined up in rows extending in a northeast to southwest direction

Question 141

141 What classification of tropical cyclone would have closed isobars, counter clockwise rotary circulation, and sustained winds between 34 and 63 knots?

A. A tropical disturbance
B. A tropical depression
C. A tropical storm
D. A hurricane

Answer 141

C. A tropical storm

Question 142

142 The wind velocity is higher in the dangerous semicircle of a tropical cyclone because of the _____.

A. wind circulation and forward motion of the storm
B. extension of the low pressure ridge
C. recurvature effect
D. direction of circulation and pressure gradient

Answer 142

A. wind circulation and forward motion of the storm

Question 143

143 When is the peak of the hurricane season in the western North Pacific?

A. January through March
B. April through June
C. July through October
D. November through December

Answer 143

C. July through October

Question 144

144 What is the average speed of movement of a hurricane prior to recurvature?

A. 4 to 6 knots
B. 6 to 8 knots
C. 10 to 12 knots
D. 15 to 20 knots

Answer 144

C. 10 to 12 knots

Question 145

145 What kind of pressure systems travel in tropical waves?

A. Subsurface pressure
B. Terrastatic pressure
C. High pressure
D. Low pressure

Answer 145

D. Low pressure

Question 146

146 You are in the Northern Hemisphere and a tropical wave is located 200 miles due west of your position. Where will the wave be located 24 hours later?

A. In the same place
B. Closer and to the west
C. Closer and to the east
D. Farther away to the west

Answer 146

D. Farther away to the west

Question 147

147 You are underway on course 050° T and your maximum speed is 10 knots. The eye of a hurricane bears 100° T, 90 miles from your position. The hurricane is moving towards 285° T at 19 knots. If you maneuver at 10 knots to avoid the hurricane, what could be the maximum CPA?

A. 39 miles
B. 45 miles
C. 53 miles
D. 59 miles

Answer 147

C. 53 miles

Question 148

148 Atmospheric pressure at sea level is equal to __________.

A. 14.7 pounds per square inch
B. 29.92 inches of mercury
C. 1013.25 millibars
D. All of the above

Answer 148

D. All of the above

Question 149

149 Lines drawn through points on the Earth having the same atmospheric pressure are known as____.

A. isothermal
B. millibars
C. isobars
D. seismics

Answer 149

C. isobars

Question 150

150 Pressure gradient is a measure of __________.

A. a high-pressure area
B. pressure difference over horizontal distance
C. pressure difference over time
D. vertical pressure variation

Answer 150

B. pressure difference over horizontal distance

Question 151

151 In low latitudes the range of the diurnal variation of pressure is up to __________.

A. 0.5 millibar
B. 3.0 millibars
C. 6.0 millibars
D. 10.0 millibars

Answer 151

B. 3.0 millibars

Question 152

152 The Illustration shows the symbols used on radio facsimile weather charts. The symbol indicated at letter “Q” represents a __________. See Diagram: D042NG

A. convergence zone
B. squall line
C. convergence line
D. weather boundary

Answer 152

C. convergence line

Question 153

153 At 0600 ZT on 31 January, your position is LAT 00° 49’ S, LONG 84° 27’ E. You are preparing a weather report form, WS Form B-80. How should you encode the first three groups after the call sign if you estimate the wind? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 30243, 90008, 30848
B. 31003, 99049, 38427
C. 31003, 99008, 30844
D. 31063, 99049, 58427

Answer 153

C. 31003, 99008, 30844

Question 154

154 When recording the wind direction in the weather log, you would report the __________.

A. direction the wind is blowing toward
B. direction the wind is blowing from
C. duration of the maximum gust of wind
D. wind chill factor

Answer 154

B. direction the wind is blowing from

Question 155

155 An occluded front on a weather map is colored __________.

A. blue line
B. purple line
C. dashed blue line
D. alternate red and blue line

Answer 155

B. purple line

Question 156

156 When within 300 miles of a named tropical storm or hurricane, it is standard practice to send weather reports every __________.

A. 8 hours
B. 6 hours
C. 3 hours
D. hour

Answer 156

C. 3 hours

Question 157

157 Anticyclones are usually characterized by __________.

A. dry, fair weather
B. high winds and cloudiness
C. gustiness and continuous precipitation
D. overcast skies

Answer 157

A. dry, fair weather

Question 158

158 The wind circulation around a high pressure center in the Northern Hemisphere is __________.

A. counterclockwise and moving towards the high
B. counterclockwise and moving outward from the high
C. clockwise and moving towards the high
D. clockwise and moving outward from the high

Answer 158

D. clockwise and moving outward from the high

Question 159

159 Warm air masses will generally have __________.

A. turbulence within the mass B. stratiform clouds
C. heavy precipitation
D. good visibility

Answer 159

B. stratiform clouds

Question 160

160 The probability of a sudden wind may be foretold by __________.

A. a partly cloudy sky
B. an overcast sky
C. a fast approaching line of dark clouds
D. the formation of cumulus clouds in the sky

Answer 160

C. a fast approaching line of dark clouds

Question 161

161 The slope of a warm front is about __________.

A. 1 mile vertically to 10 miles horizontally
B. 1 mile vertically to 50 miles horizontally
C. 1 mile vertically to 150 miles horizontally
D. 1 mile vertically to 500 miles horizontally

Answer 161

C. 1 mile vertically to 150 miles horizontally

Question 162

162 When a warm air mass overtakes and replaces a cold air mass, the contact surface is called a(n) __________.

A. warm front
B. cold front
C. line squall
D. occluded front

Answer 162

A. warm front

Question 163

163 What type of clouds are associated with a cold front?

A. Altostratus and fracto-cumulus
B. Altostratus and cirrus
C. Cirrus and cirrostratus
D. Cumulus and cumulonimbus

Answer 163

D. Cumulus and cumulonimbus

Question 164

164 A cloud sequence of cirrus, cirrostratus, and altostratus clouds followed by rain usually signifies the approach of a(n) __________.

A. occluded front
B. stationary front
C. warm front
D. cold front

Answer 164

C. warm front

Question 165

165 When compared to air temperature, which factor is most useful in predicting fog?

A. Vapor pressure
B. Dew point
C. Barometric pressure
D. Absolute humidity

Answer 165

B. Dew point

Question 166

166 The fog produced by warm moist air passing over a cold surface is called __________.

A. conduction fog
B. radiation fog
C. frontal fog
D. advection fog

Answer 166

D. advection fog

Question 167

167 While on watch, you notice that the air temperature is dropping and is approaching the dew point. Which type of weather should be forecasted?

A. Hail
B. Heavy rain
C. Sleet
D. Fog

Answer 167

D. Fog

Question 168

168 In many areas “atoll” clouds (clouds of vertical development) are produced over small islands. These are the result of __________.

A. rising air currents produced by the warm islands
B. warm air from the sea rising over higher land areas
C. cool land air mixing with warm sea air
D. descending air over the islands

Answer 168

A. rising air currents produced by the warm islands

Question 169

169 Altocumulus clouds are defined as __________.

A. high clouds
B. middle clouds
C. low clouds
D. vertical development clouds

Answer 169

B. middle clouds

Question 170

170 On a clear, warm day, you notice the approach of a tall cumulus cloud. The cloud top has hard well defined edges and rain is falling from the dark lower edge. Should this cloud pass directly overhead ____.

A. it will be preceded by a sudden increase in wind speed
B. it will be preceded by a sudden decrease in wind speed
C. the wind speed will not change as it passes
D. the wind will back rapidly to left in a counterclockwise direction as it passes

Answer 170

A. it will be preceded by a sudden increase in wind speed

Question 171

171 Which type of weather could you expect soon after seeing “hook” or “comma” shaped cirrus clouds?

A. Rain with the approach of a warm front
B. Clearing with the approach of a cold front
C. Continuing fog and rain
D. The formation of a tropical depression

Answer 171

A. Rain with the approach of a warm front

Question 172

172 The expression “the air is saturated” means __________.

A. the relative humidity is 100%
B. the vapor pressure is at its minimum for the prevailing temperature
C. precipitation has commenced
D. cloud cover is 100%

Answer 172

A. the relative humidity is 100%

Question 173

173 The dry-bulb temperature is 78° F (26° C) and the wet-bulb temperature is 68° F (20° C). What is the relative humidity?

A. 10%
B. 24%
C. 56%
D. 60%

Answer 173

D. 60%

Question 174

174 As the temperature of an air mass decreases, the __________.

A. absolute humidity decreases B. relative humidity increases
C. specific humidity decreases
D. dew point rises

Answer 174

B. relative humidity increases

Question 175

175 You are enroute to Jacksonville, FL, from San Juan, P.R. There is a fresh N’ly wind blowing. As you cross the axis of the Gulf Stream you would expect to encounter __________.

A. smoother seas and warmer water
B. steeper waves, closer together
C. long swells
D. cirrus clouds

Answer 175

B. steeper waves, closer together

Question 176

176 The chart of a beach area shows a very flat slope to the underwater beach bottom. What type of breakers can be expected when trying to land a boat on this beach?

A. Surging
B. Spilling
C. Plunging
D. Converging

Answer 176

B. Spilling

Question 177

177 What should you expect when you encounter a tsunami in the open ocean?

A. Violent seas from mixed directions
B. No noticeable change from the existing sea state
C. Winds increasing to gale force from the northwest in the Northern Hemisphere
D. A major wave of extreme height and length

Answer 177

B. No noticeable change from the existing sea state

Question 178

178 The chart of a beach area shows a very steep slope to the underwater beach bottom. Which type of breakers can be expected when trying to land a boat on this beach?

A. Surging
B. Converging
C. Spilling
D. Plunging

Answer 178

A. Surging

Question 179

179 Swell is the rise and fall of the ocean’s surface due to __________.

A. fetch
B. distant winds
C. local storms
D. the pull of the moon

Answer 179

B. distant winds

Question 180

180 Freezing salt water spray should be anticipated when the air temperature drops below what temperature?

A. 32° F (0.0° C)
B. 28° F (-2.2° C)
C. 0° F (-17.8° C)
D. -40° F (-28.9° C)

Answer 180

B. 28° F (-2.2° C)

Question 181

181 The time interval between successive wave crests is called the __________.

A. trough
B. period
C. frequency
D. epoch

Answer 181

B. period

Question 182

182 Above-normal tides near the center of a hurricane may be caused by the __________.

A. high barometric pressure
B. jet stream
C. storm surge
D. torrential rains

Answer 182

C. storm surge

Question 183

183 The length of a wave is the length __________.

A. of the wave’s crest
B. of the wave’s trough
C. measured from crest to trough
D. measured from crest to crest

Answer 183

D. measured from crest to crest

Question 184

184 Fetch is the __________.

A. distance a wave travels between formation and decay B. stretch of water over which a wave-forming wind blows
C. time in seconds required for two crests to pass a given point
D. measurement of a wave’s steepness

Answer 184

B. stretch of water over which a wave-forming wind blows

Question 185

185 Which type of precipitation is a product of the violent convection found in thunderstorms?

A. Snow
B. Freezing Rain
C. Hail
D. Sleet

Answer 185

C. Hail

Question 186

186 Which statement is TRUE concerning the current of the Gulf Stream?

A. It reaches its daily maximum speed a few hours before the transit of the Moon.
B. It is slower at the time of neap tides than at spring tides.
C. When the Moon is at its maximum declination the stream is narrower than when the Moon is on the equator.
D. Variations in the trade winds affect the current.

Answer 186

D. Variations in the trade winds affect the current.

Question 187

187 The Benguela Current flows in a __________.

A. SW’ly direction along the NW coast of Africa
B. S’ly direction off the East Coast of Australia
C. NW’ly direction along the SW coast of Africa
D. SW’ly direction along the SE coast of Greenland

Answer 187

C. NW’ly direction along the SW coast of Africa

Question 188

188 The north equatorial current flows to the __________.

A. east
B. northeast
C. southwest
D. west

Answer 188

D. west

Question 189

189 In the Northern Hemisphere the major ocean currents tend to flow __________.

A. clockwise around the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans
B. clockwise or counterclockwise depending on whether it is warm or cold current
C. counterclockwise except in the Gulf Stream
D. counterclockwise around the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans

Answer 189

A. clockwise around the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans

Question 190

190 Weather information provided by the National Weather Service (NWS) advisories should be used along with __________.

A. the Tide Tables and Tidal Current Tables
B. the local Notice to Mariners C. weather maps and local knowledge
D. any U.S. Coast Pilot

Answer 190

C. weather maps and local knowledge

Question 191

191 You should log all barometer readings taken at sea __________.

A. regularly
B. at least once during each watch
C. more often under changeable weather conditions D. All of the above

Answer 191

D. All of the above

Question 192

192 Weather observations provided by each weather station include all of the following except ______.

A. temperature
B. visibility
C. predicted weather for the next twelve hours
D. barometric pressure and change in the last three hours

Answer 192

C. predicted weather for the next twelve hours

Question 193

193 What benefit is a weather bulletin to a mariner?

A. It provides a legal reason to cancel a projected voyage.
B. It allows the mariner to make long term weather forecasts.
C. It is of little benefit since the weather changes frequently and rapidly.
D. It gives the mariner time to prepare for weather changes.

Answer 193

D. It gives the mariner time to prepare for weather changes.

Question 194

194 When navigating coastwise and hurricane warnings are received, you should __________.

A. call the Coast Guard to request further information
B. call the NWS for further information
C. just begin to react and make plans
D. have battened down and be heading for the nearest port of refuge

Answer 194

D. have battened down and be heading for the nearest port of refuge

Question 195

195 A slow rise in the barometric pressure forecasts __________.

A. rainy weather for the next 48 hours
B. high seas
C. improving weather conditions
D. deteriorating weather conditions

Answer 195

C. improving weather conditions

Question 196

196 Generally speaking, in the Northern Hemisphere, when winds are blowing from between SE and SW the barometric reading __________.

A. makes no change at all
B. is somewhat lower than it would be for winds from a northern quadrant
C. is uncertain and may fluctuate by increasing and decreasing
D. is somewhat higher than it would be for winds from the northern quadrant

Answer 196

B. is somewhat lower than it would be for winds from a northern quadrant

Question 197

197 Air temperature varies with __________.

A. the altitude above sea level
B. the season of the year
C. the latitude or distance from the equator
D. All of the above

Answer 197

D. All of the above

Question 198

198 An isotherm is __________.

A. a line on a weather map connecting equal points of both temperature and pressure
B. an instrument that measures the climatological effects of temperature
C. a line connecting points of equal barometric pressure on a weather map
D. a line connecting points of equal temperature on a weather map

Answer 198

D. a line connecting points of equal temperature on a weather map

Question 199

199 Clouds form __________.

A. as a mass of warm, humid air rises into the atmosphere and cools, condensing moisture into small droplets
B. as winds blow across bodies of water, the sun causes the moisture to be absorbed and move upward forming clouds
C. dry air compresses moisture from the atmosphere into clouds
D. when the relative humidity of the atmosphere is low

Answer 199

A. as a mass of warm, humid air rises into the atmosphere and cools, condensing moisture into small droplets

Question 200

200 The low, dark, sheet-like cloud which is associated with continuous precipitation for many hours is a __________.

A. cirrus cloud
B. cumulus cloud
C. cumulonimbus cloud
D. nimbostratus cloud

Answer 200

D. nimbostratus cloud

Question 201

201 In a weather report, the term “visibility” expresses __________.

A. how far you can see with the “naked eye”
B. how far you can see with a telescope or binoculars
C. how well you can identify an object at night
D. the distance in miles at which prominent objects are identifiable

Answer 201

D. the distance in miles at which prominent objects are identifiable

Question 202

202 The type of fog that occurs on clear nights with very light breezes and forms when the earth cools rapidly by radiation is known as __________.

A. radiation fog
B. frontal fog
C. convection fog
D. advection fog

Answer 202

A. radiation fog

Question 203

203 What is the primary source of the earth’s weather?

A. The oceans
B. The moon
C. The sun
D. The solar system

Answer 203

C. The sun

Question 204

204 Ascending and descending air masses with different temperatures is part of an important heat transmitting process in our atmosphere called __________.

A. conduction
B. radiation
C. convection
D. barometric inversion

Answer 204

C. convection

Question 205

205 A weather front exists when __________.

A. air masses of the same temperature meet
B. air masses of different temperatures meet
C. many clouds create a differential in air density
D. two lows are separated by a ridge of higher pressure

Answer 205

B. air masses of different temperatures meet

Question 206

206 Which of the following statements concerning frontal movements is TRUE?

A. The temperature rises after a cold front passes.
B. The barometric pressure rises when a warm front passes.
C. A cold front generally passes faster than a warm front.
D. A warm front usually has more violent weather associated with it than a cold front.

Answer 206

C. A cold front generally passes faster than a warm front.

Question 207

207 In regions near the poles, the winds are generally described as __________.

A. westerlies
B. easterlies
C. northerlies
D. southerlies

Answer 207

B. easterlies

Question 208

208 Two well-developed high pressure areas may be separated by a __________.

A. hill of low pressure
B. trough of low pressure
C. valley of low pressure
D. ridge of low pressure

Answer 208

B. trough of low pressure

Question 209

209 “Surface circulation” is another term for __________.

A. cyclones
B. air in motion at all levels of the atmosphere
C. wind in the lower troposphere
D. ocean currents

Answer 209

C. wind in the lower troposphere

Question 210

210 The Beaufort scale is used to estimate the __________.

A. wind direction
B. percentage of cloud cover
C. wind speed
D. barometric pressure

Answer 210

C. wind speed

Question 211

211 Which statement concerning storm surges on the Great Lakes is FALSE?

A. They are common along the deeper areas of the lakes.
B. They cause rapid differences in levels between one end of the lake and the other.
C. The greatest water level difference occurs when the wind is blowing along the longitudinal axis of the lake.
D. If the wind subsides rapidly, a seiche effect will most likely occur.

Answer 211

A. They are common along the deeper areas of the lakes.

Question 212

212 A storm’s track is characterized by all of the following except __________.

A. the direction the storm has come from
B. the direction in which the storm is moving
C. the speed at which the storm is moving
D. the path taken by the storm

Answer 212

C. the speed at which the storm is moving

Question 213

213 The intensity of a hurricane as it reaches higher latitudes and cooler waters __________.

A. Increases
B. remains the same
C. decreases
D. None of the above

Answer 213

C. decreases

Question 214

214 What is the first visible indication of the presence of a tropical cyclone or hurricane?

A. Stratocumulus clouds or strange birds
B. Rain and increasing winds
C. An exceptionally long swell
D. Dark clouds and the “bar” of the storm

Answer 214

C. An exceptionally long swell

Question 215

215 The first cloud formations you can use to indicate the bearing of the center of a hurricane or tropical storm are __________.

A. the point of convergence of the cirrus clouds
B. the direction of movement of thunderstorms on radar
C. the darkest point of the clouds in the “bar” of the storm
D. the point of origin of the altostratus clouds

Answer 215

A. the point of convergence of the cirrus clouds

Question 216

216 As a licensed Merchant Marine Officer you are expected to __________.

A. obtain a weather forecast before setting out from port
B. listen to weather forecasts on the radio while enroute
C. understand all broadcast weather warning information
D. All of the above

Answer 216

D. All of the above

Question 217

217 NOAA VHF weather reports are continuously broadcast on VHF channels WX-1, WX-2 and WX-3 on a frequency of __________.

A. 156.8, 157.1, 162.55 MHz
B. 162.55, 162.00, 171.5 KHz
C. 162.55, 162.40, 162.475 MHz
D. 2182, 2638, 2670 KHz

Answer 217

C. 162.55, 162.40, 162.475 MHz

Question 218

218 Despite weather predictions for continued good weather, a prudent mariner should be alert for all of the following, EXCEPT a sudden __________.

A. drop in barometric pressure
B. drop in temperature
C. wind shift
D. squall line

Answer 218

B. drop in temperature

Question 219

219 What are the doldrums characterized by?

A. steady, light to moderate winds
B. frequent calms
C. clear skies
D. low humidity

Answer 219

B. frequent calms

Question 220

220 A strong, often violent, northerly wind occurring on the Pacific coast of Mexico, particularly during the colder months, is called __________.

A. Tehuantepecer
B. Papagayo
C. Norther
D. Pampero

Answer 220

A. Tehuantepecer

Question 221

221 A weather forecast states that the wind will commence backing. In the Northern Hemisphere, this would indicate that it will __________.

A. shift in a clockwise manner
B. shift in a counterclockwise manner
C. continue blowing from the same direction
D. decrease in velocity

Answer 221

B. shift in a counterclockwise manner

Question 222

222 A sea breeze is a wind __________.

A. that blows towards the sea at night
B. that blows towards an island during the day
C. caused by cold air descending a coastal incline
D. caused by the distant approach of a hurricane

Answer 222

B. that blows towards an island during the day

Question 223

223 Isobars on a weather map are useful in predicting __________.

A. temperature
B. dew point
C. wind velocity
D. relative humidity

Answer 223

C. wind velocity

Question 224

224 The wind flow from the horse latitudes to the doldrums is deflected due to __________.

A. Coriolis force
B. the mid-latitude, semi-permanent high
C. differing atmospheric pressures
D. the prevailing westerlies

Answer 224

A. Coriolis force

Question 225

225 Prevailing winds between 30° N and 60° N latitude are from the __________.

A. north
B. south
C. east
D. west

Answer 225

D. west

Question 226

226 The prevailing westerlies of the Southern Hemisphere blow 18-30 knots __________.

A. all year long
B. during the summer months only
C. during the winter only
D. during spring only

Answer 226

A. all year long

Question 227

227 In the doldrums you can expect __________.

A. steady, constant winds
B. frequent rain showers and thunderstorms
C. steep pressure gradients
D. low relative humidity

Answer 227

B. frequent rain showers and thunderstorms

Question 228

228 You are steaming eastward in the North Atlantic in an extratropical cyclonic storm and the wind is dead ahead. According to the law of Buys Ballot, the center of the low pressure lies __________.

A. ahead of you
B. astern of you
C. to the north
D. to the south

Answer 228

D. to the south

Question 229

229 The apparent wind’s speed can be zero, but only when two conditions are present. One condition is that the true __________.

A. wind must be on the beam
B. wind’s speed must be zero
C. wind must be from dead ahead
D. wind’s speed equals the ship’s speed

Answer 229

D. wind’s speed equals the ship’s speed

Question 230

230 Severe tropical cyclones (hurricanes, typhoons) occur in all warm-water oceans except the _____.

A. Indian Ocean
B. North Pacific Ocean
C. South Pacific Ocean
D. South Atlantic Ocean

Answer 230

D. South Atlantic Ocean

Question 231

231 In a tropical cyclone in the Northern Hemisphere, a vessel hove to with the wind shifting counterclockwise would be __________.

A. in the navigable semicircle
B. in the dangerous semicircle
C. directly in the path of the center
D. ahead of the storm

Answer 231

A. in the navigable semicircle

Question 232

232 Early indications of the approach of a hurricane may be all of the following EXCEPT __________.

A. short confused swells
B. gradually increasing white clouds (mare’s tails)
C. pumping barometer
D. continuous fine mist-like rain

Answer 232

A. short confused swells

Question 233

233 What level of development of a tropical cyclone has a hundred mile radius of circulation, gale force winds, less than 990 millibars of pressure and vertically formed cumulonimbus clouds?

A. A tropical disturbance
B. A tropical depression
C. A tropical storm
D. A typhoon

Answer 233

C. A tropical storm

Question 234

234 Tropical storms and hurricanes are most likely to form in the Southern hemisphere during _______.

A. January through March
B. April through May
C. June through August
D. September through November

Answer 234

A. January through March

Question 235

235 What is the average speed of the movement of a hurricane following the recurvature of its track?

A. 5 to 10 knots
B. 20 to 30 knots
C. 40 to 50 knots
D. Over 60 knots

Answer 235

B. 20 to 30 knots

Question 236

236 You are in the Northern Hemisphere and a tropical wave is located 200 miles due east of your position. Where will the wave be located 12 hours later?

A. Farther away to the east
B. In the same position
C. Nearby to the east
D. Farther away to the west

Answer 236

C. Nearby to the east

Question 237

#237 The dense black cumulonimbus clouds surrounding the eye of a hurricane are called \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.
A. spiral rainbands 
B. cloud walls
C. funnel clouds
D. cyclonic spirals

Answer 237

B. cloud walls

Question 238

238 You are underway on course 050° T and your maximum speed is 10 knots. The eye of a hurricane bears 100° T, 90 miles from your position. The hurricane is moving towards 285° T at 19 knots. Which course should you steer at 10 knots to have the maximum CPA?

A. 221°
B. 226°
C. 233°
D. 238°

Answer 238

B. 226°

Question 239

239 In the Northern Hemisphere, your vessel is believed to be in the direct path of a hurricane, and plenty of sea room is available. The best course of action is to bring the wind on the __________.

A. starboard bow, note the course, and head in that direction
B. starboard quarter, note the course, and head in that direction
C. port quarter, note the course, and head in that direction
D. port bow, note the course, and head in that direction

Answer 239

B. starboard quarter, note the course, and head in that direction

Question 240

240 What do the numbers on isobars indicate?

A. barometric pressure
B. temperature
C. rain in inches
D. wind speed

Answer 240

A. barometric pressure

Question 241

241 In low latitudes, the high(s) of the diurnal variation of pressure occur(s) at __________.

A. noon
B. noon and midnight
C. 1000 and 2200
D. 1600

Answer 241

C. 1000 and 2200

Question 242

242 The standard atmospheric pressure in millibars is __________.

A. 760
B. 938.9
C. 1000
D. 1013.2

Answer 242

D. 1013.2

Question 243

243 What change in the wind direction could be expected at position “D” if the low were moving northeasterly? See Diagram: D049NG

A. Veering to the west
B. Backing to the north
C. Veering to the north
D. Backing to the east

Answer 243

A. Veering to the west

Question 244

244 The illustration shows the symbols used on radio facsimile weather charts. The symbol indicated at letter “L” represents a __________. See Diagram: D042NG

A. convergence line
B. maritime air mass
C. warm front
D. convergence zone

Answer 244

D. convergence zone

Question 245

245 Which of the symbols shown represents a warm front? See Diagram: D018NG

A. A
B. B
C. C
D. D

Answer 245

C. C

Question 246

246 At 1200 ZT, on 31 July, your position is LAT 24° 33’ N, LONG 173° 05’ W. You are preparing a weather report form, WS Form, B-80. How should you encode the first three groups after the call sign if you estimate the wind? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 01003, 99245, 71731
B. 01243, 92433, 71731
C. 31243, 99245, 71731
D. 31003, 92433, 71730

Answer 246

A. 01003, 99245, 71731

Question 247

247 In North America the majority of the weather systems move from __________.

A. north to south
B. south to north
C. east to west
D. west to east

Answer 247

D. west to east

Question 248

248 A generally circular low pressure area is called a(n) __________.

A. cyclone
B. anticyclone
C. cold front
D. occluded front

Answer 248

A. cyclone

Question 249

249 Good weather is usually associated with a region of __________.

A. low barometric pressure
B. high barometric pressure
C. falling barometric pressure
D. pumping barometric pressure

Answer 249

B. high barometric pressure

Question 250

250 An air mass is termed “warm” if __________.

A. it is above 70° F
B. the ground over which it moves is cooler than the air
C. it originated in a high pressure area
D. it originated in a low pressure area

Answer 250

B. the ground over which it moves is cooler than the air

Question 251

251 What is true about a front?

A. A front is a boundary between two air masses.
B. There are abrupt temperature differences on opposite sides of a front.
C. The pressure tendencies are different on opposite sides of a front.
D. All of the above

Answer 251

D. All of the above

Question 252

252 A series of brief showers accompanied by strong, shifting winds may occur along or some distance ahead of a(n) __________.

A. upper front aloft
B. cyclone
C. occluded front
D. cold front

Answer 252

D. cold front

Question 253

253 On the approach of a warm front, barometric pressure usually __________.

A. falls
B. is steady
C. is uncertain
D. rises

Answer 253

A. falls

Question 254

254 An occluded front is caused by a(n) __________.

A. low pressure area
B. high pressure area
C. area of calm air
D. cold front overtaking a warm front

Answer 254

D. cold front overtaking a warm front

Question 255

255 Advection fog is most commonly caused by __________.

A. air being warmed above the dew point
B. saturation of cold air by rain
C. a rapid cooling of the air near the surface of the Earth at night
D. warm moist air being blown over a colder surface

Answer 255

D. warm moist air being blown over a colder surface

Question 256

256 Fog is likely to occur when there is little difference between the dew point and the __________.

A. relative humidity
B. air temperature
C. barometric pressure
D. absolute humidity

Answer 256

B. air temperature

Question 257

257 A cloud of marked vertical development (often anvil-shaped) would be classified as __________.

A. cirrus
B. cirrocumulus
C. altocumulus
D. cumulonimbus

Answer 257

D. cumulonimbus

Question 258

258 All of the following are associated with cumulonimbus clouds EXCEPT __________.

A. steady rainfall
B. hail storms
C. thunderstorms
D. tornadoes or waterspouts

Answer 258

A. steady rainfall

Question 259

259 High clouds, composed of small white flakes or scaly globular masses, and often banded together to form a “mackerel sky”, would be classified as __________.

A. cirrus
B. cirrocumulus
C. altostratus
D. cumulonimbus

Answer 259

B. cirrocumulus

Question 260

260 Which cloud commonly produces a halo about the Sun or Moon?

A. Cirrostratus
B. Cirrocumulus
C. Altostratus
D. Altocumulus

Answer 260

A. Cirrostratus

Question 261

#261 What occurs when rising air cools to the dew point?
A. Advection fog forms
B. Humidity decreases
C. Winds increase 
D. Clouds form

Answer 261

D. Clouds form

Question 262

262 The temperature at which the air is saturated with water vapor and below which condensation of water vapor will occur is referred to as the __________.

A. precipitation point
B. vapor point
C. dew point
D. absolute humidity

Answer 262

C. dew point

Question 263

263 In mid-ocean, the characteristics of a wave are determined by three factors. What is NOT one of these factors?

A. Effect of the moon’s gravity
B. Fetch
C. Wind velocity
D. Length of time a wind has been blowing

Answer 263

A. Effect of the moon’s gravity

Question 264

264 What is the distance from the bottom of a wave trough to the top of a wave crest?

A. Wave length
B. Wave height
C. Wave breadth
D. Wave depth

Answer 264

B. Wave height

Question 265

265 You are steaming in the open ocean of the North Pacific between the Aleutian Chain and Hawaii. A warning broadcast indicates that an earthquake has occurred in the Aleutians and has generated a tsunami that is predicted to hit Hawaii. What action is necessary for the ship’s safety?

A. Calculate the tsunami’s ETA at your position and turn to a course that will head into the Tsunami.
B. Securely stow all loose gear, check deck lashings, and prepare for extreme rolls.
C. No special action as tsunamis are inconspicuous in the open ocean
D. Prepare for sudden, high-velocity wind gusts from rapidly changing directions.

Answer 265

C. No special action as tsunamis are inconspicuous in the open ocean

Question 266

266 The velocity of the wind, its steady direction, and the amount of time it has blown determines a wind driven current’s__________.

A. temperature
B. density
C. deflection
D. speed

Answer 266

D. speed

Question 267

267 The approximate mean position of the axis of the Gulf Stream east of Palm Beach, FL, is ________.

A. 35 nautical miles
B. 25 nautical miles
C. 15 nautical miles
D. 5 nautical miles

Answer 267

C. 15 nautical miles

Question 268

268 The two most effective generating forces of surface ocean currents are __________.

A. temperature and salinity differences in the water
B. wind and density differences in the water
C. water depth and underwater topography
D. rotation of the Earth and continental interference

Answer 268

B. wind and density differences in the water

Question 269

269 On a voyage from Cape Town to London, the favorable ocean current off the coast of Africa is the________.

A. Canary Current
B. Benguela Current
C. Agulhas Current
D. South Atlantic Current

Answer 269

B. Benguela Current

Question 270

270 Weather forecast messages are usually __________.

A. given only to TV stations
B. transmitted only by commercial broadcast stations
C. broadcast in plain language
D. broadcast immediately on VHF Channel 16 and 2182 kHz

Answer 270

C. broadcast in plain language

Question 271

271 Weather information is available from __________.

A. commercial radio broadcasts
B. the Coast Guard on scheduled marine information broadcasts
C. VHF-FM continuous marine weather broadcasts provided by the National Weather Service
D. All of the above

Answer 271

D. All of the above

Question 272

272 The safest and most prudent procedure to follow while navigating in the vicinity of a tropical cyclone is to __________.

A. take positive steps to avoid it if possible
B. batten down and prepare to ride out the storm
C. continue to navigate farther from the coast
D. always navigate towards the coast by the most direct route

Answer 272

A. take positive steps to avoid it if possible

Question 273

273 A decrease in barometric pressure is associated with all of the following except __________.

A. rising warm air
B. proximity to a low pressure area
C. inward spiraling circulation
D. clear dry weather

Answer 273

D. clear dry weather

Question 274

274 As the temperature of the air reaches the dew point, __________.

A. rain must develop
B. fog may form
C. it begins to snow
D. water freezes

Answer 274

B. fog may form

Question 275

275 Which of the following is NOT a form of precipitation?

A. rain
B. frost
C. sleet
D. snow

Answer 275

B. frost

Question 276

276 Clouds with the prefix “nimbo” in their name __________.

A. are sheet or layer clouds
B. have undergone great vertical development
C. are middle or high altitude clouds
D. are rain clouds

Answer 276

D. are rain clouds

Question 277

277 Fog is formed when __________.

A. the moisture in the air is condensed into small droplets
B. air is cooled to its dew point
C. the base of a cloud is on the ground
D. All of the above

Answer 277

D. All of the above

Question 278

278 Air circulation is caused or affected by __________.

A. the rotation of the earth on its axis
B. convection currents caused by differences in radiant heating between equatorial and polar regions
C. mountain ranges
D. All of the above

Answer 278

D. All of the above

Question 279

279 The process by which the temperature and/or moisture characteristics of an air mass changes is called __________.

A. sublimation or condensation B. modification
C. consolidation
D. association

Answer 279

B. modification

Question 280

280 You can expect frontal activity when two air masses collide and __________.

A. their barometric pressures and temperatures are the same
B. there are differences in how they track along the jet stream
C. there are no significant differences between their temperatures and moisture content
D. there are significant differences between the temperature of each air mass

Answer 280

D. there are significant differences between the temperature of each air mass

Question 281

281 Squall lines with an almost unbroken line of threatening dark clouds and sharp changes in wind direction, generally precede a(n) __________.

A. slow-moving warm front
B. fast-moving cold front
C. stationary front
D. occluded front

Answer 281

B. fast-moving cold front

Question 282

282 Which statement is TRUE when comparing cold and warm fronts?

A. Cold fronts are more violent and of shorter duration.
B. Cold fronts are milder and last longer.
C. They are very similar with the exception of wind direction.
D. Warm fronts are more violent and of longer duration.

Answer 282

A. Cold fronts are more violent and of shorter duration.

Question 283

283 The “horse latitudes” are regions of __________.

A. brisk prevailing winds
B. light airs and calms
C. abundant blue sea grass vegetation
D. None of the above

Answer 283

B. light airs and calms

Question 284

284 Which of the following is associated with consistently high barometric pressure?

A. The horse latitudes
B. The doldrums
C. The prevailing westerlies
D. The trade winds

Answer 284

A. The horse latitudes

Question 285

285 When a high pressure system is centered north of your vessel in the Northern Hemisphere ______.

A. you should experience hot, moist, clear weather
B. the wind direction is generally easterly
C. the winds should be from the southwest at your location
D. the winds should be brisk

Answer 285

B. the wind direction is generally easterly

Question 286

286 Generally speaking, you should expect to find low atmospheric pressure prevailing in the earth’s __________.

A. equatorial area
B. polar regions
C. mid-latitudes
D. All of the above

Answer 286

A. equatorial area

Question 287

287 In a cyclone the lowest pressure is found in the __________.

A. center
B. outer edge
C. warm front
D. cold front

Answer 287

A. center

Question 288

288 A gale is characterized by a wind speed of __________.

A. 10 to 20 knots
B. 34 to 47 knots
C. 48 to 63 knots
D. 64 to 83 knots

Answer 288

B. 34 to 47 knots

Question 289

289 Your present weather is sunny with a steady barometer. A low swell approaches your vessel from the south with crests passing at relatively long periods of about four per minute. This usually indicates __________.

A. a warm front from the south B. a tropical cyclone south of your vessel
C. a hurricane about 100 miles south of your vessel and heading in your direction
D. an extra-tropical cyclone

Answer 289

B. a tropical cyclone south of your vessel

Question 290

290 A weather forecast states that the wind will commence veering. In the Northern Hemisphere this indicates that the wind will __________.

A. shift in a clockwise manner
B. shift in a counterclockwise manner
C. continue blowing from the same direction
D. increase in velocity

Answer 290

A. shift in a clockwise manner

Question 291

291 Monsoons are characterized by __________.

A. light, variable winds with little or no humidity
B. strong, gusty winds that blow from the same general direction all year
C. steady winds that reverse direction semiannually
D. strong, cyclonic winds that change direction to conform to the passage of an extreme low pressure system

Answer 291

C. steady winds that reverse direction semiannually

Question 292

292 The winds with the greatest effect on the set, drift, and depth of the equatorial currents are the ___.

A. doldrums
B. horse latitudes
C. trade winds
D. prevailing westerlies

Answer 292

C. trade winds

Question 293

293 Weather conditions in the middle latitudes generally move __________.

A. eastward
B. westward
C. northward
D. southward

Answer 293

A. eastward

Question 294

294 Where are the prevailing westerlies of the Southern Hemisphere located?

A. Between the Equator and 10° latitude
B. Between 10° and 20° latitude C. Between 30° and 60° latitude
D. Between 60° and 90° latitude

Answer 294

C. Between 30° and 60° latitude

Question 295

295 Considering the general circulation of the atmosphere, the wind system between latitudes 30° N and 60° N is commonly called the __________.

A. prevailing westerlies
B. horse latitudes
C. trade winds
D. subpolar low pressure belts

Answer 295

A. prevailing westerlies

Question 296

296 If your weather bulletin shows the center of a low pressure area to be 100 miles due east of your position, what winds can you expect in the Northern Hemisphere?

A. East to northeast
B. East to southeast
C. North to northwest
D. South to southeast

Answer 296

C. North to northwest

Question 297

297 The apparent wind is zero when the true wind is __________.

A. zero
B. from ahead and equal to the ship’s speed
C. from astern and equal to the ship’s speed
D. from astern and is twice the ship’s speed

Answer 297

C. from astern and equal to the ship’s speed

Question 298

298 The velocity of the apparent wind can be less than the true wind and from the same direction, if certain conditions are present. One condition is that the __________.

A. ship’s speed is more than the true wind velocity
B. true wind is from dead astern
C. true wind is on the beam
D. true wind is from dead ahead

Answer 298

B. true wind is from dead astern

Question 299

299 A ship is on course 195° at a speed of 15 knots. The apparent wind is from 40° on the port bow, speed 30 knots. The direction and speed of the true wind are __________.

A. 068° T, 30 knots
B. 127° T, 21 knots
C. 263° T, 42 knots
D. 292° T, 42 knots

Answer 299

B. 127° T, 21 knots

Question 300

300 You are attempting to locate your position relative to a hurricane in the Northern Hemisphere. If the wind direction remains steady, but with diminishing velocity, you are most likely __________.

A. in the right semicircle
B. in the left semicircle
C. on the storm track ahead of the center
D. on the storm track behind the center

Answer 300

D. on the storm track behind the center

Question 301

301 The strongest winds and heaviest rains in a hurricane are found in the __________.

A. outer bands
B. eye
C. cloud walls
D. spiral rainbands

Answer 301

C. cloud walls

Question 302

302 You are underway on course 120° T and can make 12 knots. The eye of a hurricane bears 150° T at 120 miles. The hurricane is on course 295° at 20 knots. What course should you steer at 12 knots to have the maximum CPA?

A. 312°
B. 330°
C. 348°
D. 001°

Answer 302

C. 348°

Question 303

303 If you are caught in the left semicircle of a tropical storm, in the Southern Hemisphere, you should bring the wind __________.

A. on the starboard quarter, hold course and make as much way as possible
B. 2 points on the port quarter, and make as much way as possible
C. on the port bow, and make as much way as possible
D. dead ahead and heave to

Answer 303

C. on the port bow, and make as much way as possible

Question 304

304 A steep barometric gradient indicates __________.

A. calms
B. light winds
C. strong winds
D. precipitation

Answer 304

C. strong winds

Question 305

305 At what angle to the isobars do surface winds blow over the open sea?

A. About 90°
B. About 50°
C. About 25°
D. About 15°

Answer 305

D. About 15°

Question 306

306 The standard atmospheric pressure measured in inches of mercury is __________.

A. 29.92
B. 500
C. 760
D. 1013.2

Answer 306

A. 29.92

Question 307

307 In low latitudes, the low(s) of the diurnal variation of pressure occur(s) at __________.

A. noon
B. noon and midnight
C. 1000 and 2200
D. 0400 and 1600

Answer 307

D. 0400 and 1600

Question 308

308 At 1200 ZT, on 31 August, your position is LAT 43° 14’ S, LONG 175° 44’ E. You are preparing a weather report form, WS Form B-80. How should you encode the first three groups after the call sign if you estimate the wind? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 01003, 94314, 51757
B. 31003, 99432, 31757
C. 31123, 99432, 31754
D. 31243, 94314, 31757

Answer 308

B. 31003, 99432, 31757

Question 309

309 Weather systems in the middle latitudes generally travel from __________.

A. east to west
B. north to south
C. west to east
D. None of the above

Answer 309

C. west to east

Question 310

310 Most high pressure areas in the United States are accompanied by __________.

A. precipitation
B. clear, cool weather
C. humid, sticky weather
D. cool fogs

Answer 310

B. clear, cool weather

Question 311

311 A source of an air mass labeled mTw is __________.

A. the equator
B. the Gulf of Mexico
C. Alaska
D. Canada

Answer 311

B. the Gulf of Mexico

Question 312

312 After a cold front passes, the barometric pressure __________.

A. drops, and the temperature drops
B. drops, and the temperature rises
C. rises, and the temperature drops
D. rises, and the temperature rises

Answer 312

C. rises, and the temperature drops

Question 313

313 A boundary between two air masses is a(n) __________.

A. lapse rate
B. isobar
C. front
D. continent

Answer 313

C. front

Question 314

314 When warm moist air blows over a colder surface and is cooled below its dew point, the result is __________.

A. radiation fog
B. ice fog
C. advection fog
D. frost smoke

Answer 314

C. advection fog

Question 315

315 The presence of stratus clouds and a dying wind will usually result in __________.

A. heavy rain
B. heavy snow
C. thick fog
D. clearing skies

Answer 315

C. thick fog

Question 316

316 Cumulonimbus clouds can produce __________.

A. dense fog and high humidity
B. gusty winds, thunder, rain or hail, and lightning
C. clear skies with the approach of a cold front
D. a rapid drop in barometric pressure followed by darkness

Answer 316

B. gusty winds, thunder, rain or hail, and lightning

Question 317

317 Cirrus clouds are indicated by which number? See Diagram: D039NG

A. 1
B. 4
C. 5
D. 7

Answer 317

A. 1

Question 318

318 In order to get the maximum benefit from the Gulf Stream, on a voyage between Houston and Philadelphia, you should navigate __________.

A. about 75 miles east of Ormond Beach, FL
B. close inshore between Jupiter Inlet and Fowey Rocks, FL
C. along the 50-fathom curve while off the east coast of Florida
D. about 10 miles east of Cape Canaveral, FL

Answer 318

A. about 75 miles east of Ormond Beach, FL

Question 319

319 If you observe a rapid fall of barometric pressure you should __________.

A. call the Coast Guard to verify the change
B. know the barometer is not working properly
C. contact the NWS or a local radio station
D. prepare for the onset of stormy weather with strong winds

Answer 319

D. prepare for the onset of stormy weather with strong winds

Question 320

320 Static on your AM radio may be __________.

A. an indication of nearby thunderstorm activity
B. an indication of “clearing” weather
C. of no meteorological significance
D. a sign of strong winds

Answer 320

A. an indication of nearby thunderstorm activity

Question 321

321 A slow, gradual fall of the barometer indicates approaching __________.

A. gale force winds within 12 hours
B. blizzard conditions
C. deteriorating or unsettled weather
D. heavy, wind driven rain

Answer 321

C. deteriorating or unsettled weather

Question 322

322 Fog forms when the air temperature is at or below __________.

A. 32° F
B. the wet bulb temperature
C. the dew point
D. the dry bulb temperature

Answer 322

C. the dew point

Question 323

323 Fog generally clears when the __________.

A. wind speed increases
B. wind direction changes
C. temperature increases
D. All of the above

Answer 323

D. All of the above

Question 324

324 Air masses near the earth’s surface __________.

A. move from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure
B. are deflected by the earth’s rotation in both hemispheres
C. are deflected by the “Coriolis effect”
D. All of the above

Answer 324

D. All of the above

Question 325

325 Which type of frontal passage is associated with a relatively narrow band of precipitation?

A. A cold front
B. A warm front
C. A stationary front
D. None of the above

Answer 325

A. A cold front

Question 326

326 Which type of front forms when a cold front overtakes and forces a warm front upwards?

A. A cold front
B. An occluded front
C. A warm front
D. A stationary front

Answer 326

B. An occluded front

Question 327

327 In the Northern Hemisphere, when the center of a high pressure system is due east of your position, you can expect winds from the __________.

A. south to west
B. south to east
C. north to west
D. north to east

Answer 327

B. south to east

Question 328

328 Which general weather conditions should you expect to find in a low pressure system?

A. Fair weather
B. Precipitation and cloudiness
C. Scattered clouds at high elevations
D. Gradual clearing and cooler temperatures

Answer 328

B. Precipitation and cloudiness

Question 329

329 What generally occurs when the land is cooler than the nearby water?

A. A land breeze
B. A sea breeze
C. A norther
D. A prevailing westerly

Answer 329

A. A land breeze

Question 330

330 When a tornado moves over the water from land it is called a __________.

A. tornado
B. waterspout
C. hurricane
D. cyclone

Answer 330

B. waterspout

Question 331

331 A tropical storm is a tropical cyclone that generates winds of __________.

A. between 20 and 33 knots
B. between 34 and 63 knots
C. over 63 knots
D. None of the above

Answer 331

B. between 34 and 63 knots

Question 332

332 When your vessel is on the storm track but behind the storm’s center the __________.

A. wind direction remains steady
B. wind speed decreases
C. barometer rises
D. All of the above

Answer 332

D. All of the above

Question 333

333 Swells that have outrun the storm are produced in the __________.

A. left front quadrant
B. right front quadrant
C. rear
D. directly ahead on the storms projected track

Answer 333

B. right front quadrant

Question 334

334 A tsunami is caused by a(n) __________.

A. tidal wave
B. storm surge caused by a hurricane or tropical storm
C. earthquake on the ocean’s floor
D. tornado

Answer 334

C. earthquake on the ocean’s floor

Question 335

335 You can follow the approach of a dangerous cyclonic storm by inspecting __________.

A. a newspaper, a weather map, a weather fax, or a weather forecast
B. the National Weather Service Observing Handbook No.1, Marine Surface Observations
C. the Coast Pilot or Sailing Directions
D. the sky overhead

Answer 335

A. a newspaper, a weather map, a weather fax, or a weather forecast

Question 336

336 Which position shown would likely have stratus or stratocumulus clouds, occasional light drizzle, steady southerlies around 10 knots, and steady temperatures? See Diagram: D049NG

A. B
B. C
C. D
D. E

Answer 336

D. E

Question 337

337 Wind velocity varies __________.

A. directly with the temperature of the air mass
B. directly with the pressure gradient
C. inversely with the barometric pressure
D. inversely with the absolute humidity

Answer 337

B. directly with the pressure gradient

Question 338

338 A very light breeze that causes ripples on a small area of still water is a __________.

A. cat’s paw
B. hog’s breath
C. williwaw
D. chinook

Answer 338

A. cat’s paw

Question 339

339 The consistent winds blowing from the horse latitudes to the doldrums are called the __________.

A. prevailing westerlies
B. polar easterlies
C. trade winds
D. roaring forties

Answer 339

C. trade winds

Question 340

340 The direction of the southeast trade winds is a result of the __________.

A. equatorial current
B. humidity
C. rotation of the earth
D. change of seasons

Answer 340

C. rotation of the earth

Question 341

341 The velocity of the apparent wind can be more than the true wind, and come from the same direction, if certain conditions are present. One condition is that the __________.

A. ship’s speed must be less than the true wind velocity
B. true wind must be from dead astern
C. true wind velocity must be faster than the ship’s speed
D. true wind must be from dead ahead

Answer 341

D. true wind must be from dead ahead

Question 342

342 Your vessel is on course 270° T, speed 10 knots. The apparent wind is from 10° off the port bow, speed 30 knots. From which direction is the true wind?

A. 345° T
B. 255° T
C. 165° T
D. 075° T

Answer 342

B. 255° T

Question 343

343 What indicates the arrival of a hurricane within 24 to 36 hours?

A. The normal swell becoming lower and from a steady direction
B. Long bands of nimbostratus clouds radiating from a point over the horizon
C. The barometer drops 2 millibars between 1000 and 1600
D. Unusually good weather with above average pressures followed by a slow fall of 4 millibars in six hours

Answer 343

D. Unusually good weather with above average pressures followed by a slow fall of 4 millibars in six hours

Question 344

344 You are underway on course 120° T and your maximum speed is 12 knots. The eye of a hurricane bears 150° T, 120 miles from your position. The hurricane is moving towards 295° T at 20 knots. If you maneuver at 12 knots to avoid the hurricane, what could be the maximum CPA?

A. 89 miles
B. 96 miles
C. 105 miles
D. 117 miles

Answer 344

D. 117 miles

Question 345

345 In the Northern Hemisphere you are caught in the dangerous semicircle of a storm with plenty of sea room available. The best course of action is to bring the wind on the __________.

A. port quarter and make as much headway as possible
B. starboard quarter and make as much headway as possible C. starboard bow and make as much headway as possible
D. port bow and make as much headway as possible

Answer 345

C. starboard bow and make as much headway as possible

Question 346

346 What is a common unit of measure for atmospheric pressure?

A. centimeters
B. Inches
C. Degrees
D. Feet

Answer 346

C. Degrees

Question 347

347 The diurnal variation of pressure is most noticeable __________.

A. above the polar circles
B. in a low pressure area
C. during periods of low temperatures
D. in the doldrums

Answer 347

D. in the doldrums

Question 348

348 The Illustration shows the symbols used by radio facsimile weather charts. The symbol indicated at letter “F” represents a__________. See Diagram: D042NG

A. maritime air mass
B. weather boundary
C. convergence zone
D. squall line

Answer 348

B. weather boundary

Question 349

349 Which of the symbols shown represents an occluded front? See Diagram: D018NG

A. A
B. B
C. C
D. D

Answer 349

D. D

Question 350

350 Referring to the illustration, which wind speed is reported in position C? See Diagram: D049NG

A. 3 knots
B. 10 knots
C. 20 knots
D. 30 knots

Answer 350

D. 30 knots

Question 351

351 The wind direction around a low pressure area in the Northern Hemisphere is __________.

A. clockwise and inward
B. clockwise and outward
C. counterclockwise and inward
D. counterclockwise and outward

Answer 351

C. counterclockwise and inward

Question 352

352 The atmosphere in the vicinity of a high pressure area is called a(n) __________.

A. anticyclone
B. cold front
C. occluded front
D. cyclone

Answer 352

A. anticyclone

Question 353

353 An air mass that has moved down from Canada would most likely have the symbols __________.

A. mPk
B. cPk
C. cTk
D. cTw

Answer 353

B. cPk

Question 354

354 As a cold front passes an observer, pressure __________.

A. drops and winds become variable
B. rises and winds become gusty
C. drops and winds become gusty
D. rises and winds become variable

Answer 354

B. rises and winds become gusty

Question 355

355 When a warm air mass overtakes a cold air mass, the contact surface is called a __________.

A. line squall
B. water spout
C. cold front
D. warm front

Answer 355

D. warm front

Question 356

356 The first indications a mariner will have of the approach of a warm front will be __________.

A. large cumulonimbus (thunderclouds) building up
B. high cirrus clouds gradually changing to cirrostratus and then to altostratus
C. fog caused by the warm air passing over the cooler water
D. low dark clouds accompanied by intermittent rain

Answer 356

B. high cirrus clouds gradually changing to cirrostratus and then to altostratus

Question 357

357 Which condition would most likely result in fog?

A. Warm moist air blowing over cold water
B. Airborne dust particles
C. Warm moist air blowing over warm water
D. Dew point falling below the air temperature

Answer 357

A. Warm moist air blowing over cold water

Question 358

358 What type of cloud is indicated by the number 5 in illustration D039NG? See Diagram: D039NG

A. Cirrostratus
B. Cirrocumulus
C. Altocumulus
D. Nimbostratus

Answer 358

C. Altocumulus

Question 359

359 Which type of cloud is the classic “thunderhead”?

A. Cumulonimbus
B. Stratus
C. Cirrus
D. Altostratus

Answer 359

A. Cumulonimbus

Question 360

360 The West Wind Drift is located __________.

A. near 60° S
B. on each side of the Equatorial Current
C. in the North Atlantic between Greenland and Europe
D. in the South Pacific near 5° S

Answer 360

A. near 60° S

Question 361

361 Widely spaced isobars on a weather map indicate __________.

A. high winds
B. gentle breezes
C. ice, snow or frozen rain
D. probability of tornados

Answer 361

B. gentle breezes

Question 362

362 As a high pressure system approaches, the barometer reading __________.

A. stays the same
B. falls
C. rises
D. falls rapidly

Answer 362

C. rises

Question 363

363 When your barometer reading changes from 30.25 to 30.05 in a 12-hour period it indicates ______.

A. rapidly changing weather
B. improving weather
C. high winds within the next six hours
D. little or no immediate change

Answer 363

D. little or no immediate change

Question 364

364 The force resulting from the earth’s rotation that causes winds to deflect to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere is called __________.

A. pressure gradient
B. Coriolis effect
C. aurora borealis
D. ballistic deflection

Answer 364

B. Coriolis effect

Question 365

365 Two well-developed low pressure areas may be separated by a __________.

A. trough of higher pressure
B. hill of higher pressure
C. ridge of higher pressure
D. valley of higher pressure

Answer 365

C. ridge of higher pressure

Question 366

366 In the Northern Hemisphere a wind is said to veer when the wind __________.

A. changes direction clockwise, as from north to east, etc.
B. changes direction violently and erratically
C. remains constant in direction and speed
D. changes direction counterclockwise, as from south to east, etc.

Answer 366

A. changes direction clockwise, as from north to east, etc.

Question 367

367 The hurricane season in the North Atlantic Ocean reaches its peak during the month of _______.

A. June
B. September
C. November
D. July

Answer 367

B. September

Question 368

368 A hurricane is characterized by winds of __________.

A. up to 33 knots
B. 34 to 47 knots
C. 48 to 63 knots
D. 64 knots or greater

Answer 368

D. 64 knots or greater

Question 369

369 A vessel operating on the Great Lakes, and whose position is southeast of an eastward-moving storm center, would NOT experience __________.

A. a falling barometer
B. lowering clouds and drizzle C. a northeast wind
D. rain or snow

Answer 369

C. a northeast wind

Question 370

370 During the winter months, the southeast trade winds are __________.

A. stronger than during the summer months
B. weaker than during the summer months
C. drier than during the summer months
D. wetter than during the summer months

Answer 370

A. stronger than during the summer months

Question 371

371 If an observer in the Northern Hemisphere faces the surface wind, the center of low pressure is to his __________.

A. left, slightly behind him
B. right, slightly behind him
C. left, slightly in front of him
D. right, slightly in front of him

Answer 371

B. right, slightly behind him

Question 372

372 What is the FIRST sign of the existence of a well developed tropical cyclone?

A. Gale force winds from the north
B. An unusually long ocean swell
C. Steep, short-period waves and light wind
D. Thunderstorms and higher than usual humidity

Answer 372

B. An unusually long ocean swell

Question 373

373 Which kind of conditions would you observe as the eye of a storm passes over your vessel’s position?

A. Huge waves approaching from all directions, clearing skies, light winds, and an extremely low barometer
B. Flat calm seas, heavy rain, light winds, and an extremely low barometer
C. Flat calm seas, heavy rain, light winds, and high pressure
D. Huge waves approaching from all directions, clearing skies, light winds, and high pressure

Answer 373

A. Huge waves approaching from all directions, clearing skies, light winds, and an extremely low barometer

Question 374

374 In a tropical cyclone, in the Northern Hemisphere, a vessel hove to with the wind shifting counterclockwise is __________.

A. ahead of the storm center
B. in the dangerous semicircle C. in the navigable semicircle
D. directly in the approach path of the storm

Answer 374

C. in the navigable semicircle

Question 375

375 You are underway on course 050° T and your maximum speed is 11 knots. The eye of a hurricane bears 070° T, 80 miles from your position. The hurricane is moving towards 270° T at 19 knots. What course should you steer at 11 knots to have the maximum CPA?

A. 250°
B. 234°
C. 227°
D. 215°

Answer 375

D. 215°

Question 376

376 The edge of a hurricane has overtaken your vessel in the Gulf of Mexico, and the northwest wind of a few hours ago has shifted to the west. This is an indication that you are located in the __________.

A. navigable semicircle
B. dangerous semicircle
C. low pressure area
D. eye of the storm

Answer 376

A. navigable semicircle

Question 377

377 A millibar is a unit of __________.

A. humidity
B. precipitation
C. pressure
D. temperature

Answer 377

C. pressure

Question 378

378 The diurnal variation of pressure is not visible in the middle latitudes in winter because __________.

A. it is masked by the pressure changes of moving weather systems
B. the decreased gravitational effect from the sun causes the variation to fade
C. the decreased average temperature is less than the critical temperature
D. the increased Coriolis force disperses the pressure variation

Answer 378

A. it is masked by the pressure changes of moving weather systems

Question 379

379 As shown in the illustration, which wind speeds are reported at position A? See Diagram: D049NG

A. 10 knots
B. 15 knots
C. 20 knots
D. 25 knots

Answer 379

B. 15 knots

Question 380

380 In the Northern Hemisphere, an area of counterclockwise wind circulation surrounded by higher pressure is a __________.

A. low
B. high
C. warm front
D. cold front

Answer 380

A. low

Question 381

381 In the Northern Hemisphere, gusty winds shifting clockwise, a rapid drop in temperature, thunderstorms or rain squalls in summer (frequent rain/snow squalls in winter) then a rise in pressure followed by clearing skies, indicate the passage of a(n) __________.

A. warm front
B. tropical cyclone
C. anticyclone
D. cold front

Answer 381

D. cold front

Question 382

382 Steam smoke will occur when __________.

A. extremely cold air from shore passes over warmer water
B. warm dry air from shore passes over cooler water
C. cold ocean water evaporates into warm air
D. cool rain passes through a warm air mass

Answer 382

A. extremely cold air from shore passes over warmer water

Question 383

383 Which type of cloud is indicated by the number 4? See Diagram: D039NG

A. Altocumulus
B. Cirrostratus
C. Cumulus
D. Altostratus

Answer 383

D. Altostratus

Question 384

384 The steady current circling the globe at about 60° S is the __________.

A. Prevailing Westerly
B. Sub-Polar Flow
C. West Wind Drift
D. Humboldt Current

Answer 384

C. West Wind Drift

Question 385

385 Ocean currents are well defined and __________.

A. create large waves in the direction of the current
B. change direction 360° during a 24 hour period
C. remain fairly constant in direction and velocity throughout the year
D. are characterized by a light green color

Answer 385

C. remain fairly constant in direction and velocity throughout the year

Question 386

386 Which of the following is the most useful factor for predicting weather?

A. The present reading of the barometer
B. The previous reading of the barometer
C. The difference in the barometric readings within the past 24 hours
D. The rate and direction of change of barometric readings

Answer 386

D. The rate and direction of change of barometric readings

Question 387

387 When observing a rapid rise in barometric pressure, you may expect __________.

A. clear weather with no wind, but the possibility of rain or snow within 24 hours
B. deteriorating weather with rain or snow
C. heavy rain or severe thundershowers
D. clearing weather, possibly accompanied by high winds

Answer 387

D. clearing weather, possibly accompanied by high winds

Question 388

388 A rapid rise or fall of the barometer indicates __________.

A. heavy rain within six hours
B. a decrease in wind velocity C. a change in the present weather conditions
D. that fog will soon set in

Answer 388

C. a change in the present weather conditions

Question 389

389 Hot air can hold __________.

A. less moisture than cold air
B. more moisture than cold air
C. the same amount of moisture as cold air
D. moisture independent of air temperature

Answer 389

B. more moisture than cold air

Question 390

390 Which type of cloud formation should be of immediate concern to small craft operators?

A. cirrus
B. altostratus
C. nimbostratus
D. cumulonimbus

Answer 390

D. cumulonimbus

Question 391

391 Which scale is used to estimate wind speed by observing sea conditions __________.

A. Metric scale
B. Wind scale
C. Coriolis scale
D. Beaufort scale

Answer 391

D. Beaufort scale

Question 392

392 A sign of thunderstorm development is a cumulus cloud __________.

A. darkening, growing in size and forming an anvil top
B. that shows extensive vertical development
C. creating cold downdrafts that are felt on the ground
D. All of the above

Answer 392

D. All of the above

Question 393

393 As it approaches, a typical warm front will bring __________.

A. rising temperatures and falling barometric pressure
B. falling temperature and pressure
C. falling temperatures and rising pressure
D. rising barometric pressure and temperatures

Answer 393

A. rising temperatures and falling barometric pressure

Question 394

394 A phenomenon where the atmospheric pressure is higher than that of other surrounding regions is called __________.

A. the “trade winds”
B. a low front or an occluded front
C. a high pressure area; an anticyclone; or a “high”
D. the “doldrums”

Answer 394

C. a high pressure area; an anticyclone; or a “high”

Question 395

395 The southeast trade winds actually blow toward the __________.

A. southeast
B. south
C. east
D. northwest

Answer 395

D. northwest

Question 396

396 According to Buys Ballot’s law, when an observer in the Northern Hemisphere experiences a northeast wind the center of low pressure is located to the __________.

A. northeast
B. west-southwest
C. northwest
D. south-southeast

Answer 396

D. south-southeast

Question 397

397 Which change in the condition of the seas could indicate the formation of a tropical storm or hurricane several hundred miles from your location?

A. A long swell from an unusual direction
B. A lengthy lull in the wind and seas
C. Large seas coming from different directions
D. A brisk chop from the southeast

Answer 397

A. A long swell from an unusual direction

Question 398

398 That half of the hurricane to the right hand side of its track (as you face the same direction that the storm is moving) in the Northern Hemisphere is called the __________.

A. windward side
B. leeward side
C. safe semicircle
D. dangerous semicircle

Answer 398

D. dangerous semicircle

Question 399

399 You are underway on course 050° T and your maximum speed is 11 knots. The eye of a hurricane bears 070° T, 80 miles from your position. The hurricane is moving towards 270° T at 19 knots. If you maneuver at 11 knots to avoid the hurricane, what could be the maximum CPA?

A. 84 miles
B. 79 miles
C. 74 miles
D. 66 miles

Answer 399

D. 66 miles

Question 400

400 The illustration shows the symbols used on radio facsimile weather charts. The symbol indicated at letter “N” represents __________. See Diagram: D042NG

A. hail
B. freezing rain
C. rain
D. snow

Answer 400

C. rain

Question 401

401 You are preparing a weather report form. Twenty-five percent of the sky is covered with clouds, and the anemometer indicates that the apparent wind is from 062° relative at 13 knots. You are on course 238° T at 22 knots. How should you encode group Nddff? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 20220
B. 20613
C. 30219
D. 32413

Answer 401

A. 20220

Question 402

402 Brief, violent showers frequently accompanied by thunder and lightning are usually associated with.

A. passage of a warm front
B. passage of a cold front
C. winds shifting counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere
D. stationary high pressure systems

Answer 402

B. passage of a cold front

Question 403

403 What is typical of warm front weather conditions?

A. An increase in pressure
B. A wind shift from southwest to northwest
C. Scattered cumulus clouds
D. Steady precipitation

Answer 403

D. Steady precipitation

Question 404

#404 You are on a voyage from New Orleans to Boston and navigating off the Florida coast. You will get the greatest benefit from the Gulf Stream if you navigate \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.
A. about 5 miles east of Cape Canaveral
B. about 15 miles east of Daytona
C. along the 50-fathom curve 
D. about 20 miles east of Jupiter Inlet

Answer 404

D. about 20 miles east of Jupiter Inlet

Question 405

405 A type of precipitation that occurs only in thunderstorms with strong convection currents that convey raindrops above and below the freezing level is known as __________.

A. sleet
B. hail
C. freezing rain
D. rime

Answer 405

B. hail

Question 406

406 Cumulus clouds that have undergone vertical development and have become cumulonimbus in form, indicate __________.

A. clearing weather
B. that a warm front has passed C. probable thunderstorm activity
D. an approaching hurricane or typhoon

Answer 406

C. probable thunderstorm activity

Question 407

407 Which of the listed properties does warm air possess?

A. It rises above cooler air and cools as it rises.
B. Atmospheric pressure drops as warm air rises.
C. Moisture in warm air condenses as the air is cooled. D. All of the above

Answer 407

D. All of the above

Question 408

408 In the Southern Hemisphere the wind circulation in a high pressure system rotates __________.

A. clockwise and inward
B. clockwise and outward
C. counterclockwise and outward
D. counterclockwise and inward

Answer 408

C. counterclockwise and outward

Question 409

409 When your vessel is on or near the path of an approaching tropical storm the __________.

A. wind direction remains steady
B. wind speed increases
C. barometer falls
D. All of the above

Answer 409

D. All of the above

Question 410

410 The eye of a hurricane is surrounded by dense black cumulonimbus clouds which are called the __________.

A. wall cloud
B. nimbostratus cloud
C. bar
D. funnel

Answer 410

A. wall cloud

Question 411

411 Weather patterns in the Gulf Coast area of the United States are __________.

A. those of a transition zone between tropical and a temperate area
B. those of a tropical region
C. extremely hot in summer
D. tropical over Florida and subtropical over the rest of the Gulf Coast area

Answer 411

A. those of a transition zone between tropical and a temperate area

Question 412

412 While in port, you can follow the approach of a dangerous cyclonic storm by inspecting _________.

A. the sky overhead
B. the National Weather Service Observing Handbook No.1, Marine Surface Observations
C. the Coast Pilot or Sailing Directions
D. a weather map

Answer 412

D. a weather map

Question 413

413 If a weather bulletin shows the center of a low pressure system to be 100 miles due east of you, what winds can you expect in the Southern Hemisphere?

A. South-southwesterly
B. North-northwesterly
C. South-southeasterly
D. North-northeasterly

Answer 413

A. South-southwesterly

Question 414

414 Your ship is proceeding on course 320° T at a speed of 25 knots. The apparent wind is from 30° off the starboard bow, speed 32 knots. What is the relative direction, true direction and speed of the true wind?

A. Relative 80°, true 040° T, 16.2 knots
B. Relative 40°, true 080° T, 16.4 knots
C. Relative 80°, true 060° T, 15.2 knots
D. Relative 60°, true 040° T, 18.6 knots

Answer 414

A. Relative 80°, true 040° T, 16.2 knots

Question 415

415 In the Northern Hemisphere, the largest waves or swells created by a typhoon or hurricane will be located __________.

A. in the southeast quadrant of the storm
B. directly behind the storm center
C. forward and to the right of its course
D. behind and to the left of its course

Answer 415

C. forward and to the right of its course

Question 416

416 Where is the dangerous semicircle located on a hurricane in the Southern Hemisphere?

A. To the left of the storm’s track
B. To the right of the storm’s track
C. In the high pressure area
D. On the south side

Answer 416

A. To the left of the storm’s track

Question 417

417 You are underway on course 050° T and your maximum speed is 12 knots. The eye of a hurricane bears 120° T, 110 miles from your position. The hurricane is moving towards 285° T at 25 knots. What course should you steer at 12 knots to have the maximum CPA?

A. 332°
B. 339°
C. 346°
D. 357°

Answer 417

C. 346°

Question 418

418 On a working copy of a weather map, a cold front is represented by what color line?

A. Red
B. Blue
C. Alternating red and blue
D. Purple

Answer 418

B. Blue

Question 419

419 You are preparing a weather report form, WS Form B-80. The sky is overcast, and the anemometer indicates that the apparent wind is from 144° relative at 8 knots. You are on course 162° T at 15 knots. How should you encode group Nddff? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 91521
B. 83322
C. 81408
D. 1615

Answer 419

B. 83322

Question 420

420 When a low pressure area is approaching, the weather generally __________.

A. improves
B. worsens
C. remains the same
D. is unpredictable

Answer 420

B. worsens

Question 421

421 In the Northern Hemisphere, winds veering sharply to the west or northwest with increasing speed are indications that a__________.

A. cold front has passed
B. low pressure center is approaching
C. stationary front exists
D. high pressure center has passed

Answer 421

A. cold front has passed

Question 422

422 The FIRST indications a mariner will have of the approach of a warm front will be __________.

A. large cumulonimbus clouds building up
B. low dark clouds with intermittent rain
C. fog caused by the warm air passing over the cooler water D. high clouds gradually followed by lower thicker clouds

Answer 422

D. high clouds gradually followed by lower thicker clouds

Question 423

423 If you count 20 seconds between seeing lightning and hearing the thunder, how far is the storm away from you?

A. 2 miles
B. 4 miles
C. 6 miles
D. 8 miles

Answer 423

B. 4 miles

Question 424

424 Compared to a low pressure system, generally the air in a high is __________.

A. warmer, less dense, and less stable
B. cool, more dense, and drier
C. muggy and cloudy
D. extremely moist with high relative humidity

Answer 424

B. cool, more dense, and drier

Question 425

425 Which statement is FALSE concerning the dangerous semicircle of a hurricane?

A. The actual wind speed is increased by the forward movement of the storm along its track
B. the direction of the wind and the sea might carry a vessel directly into the storm’s path
C. The seas are higher
D. The rain is heavier

Answer 425

D. The rain is heavier

Question 426

426 What natural feature is responsible for the rather even climate found on the Florida peninsula throughout the year?

A. Strong masses of continental air
B. The Gulf Stream
C. The Bermuda high
D. The cool waters of the Sargasso sea

Answer 426

B. The Gulf Stream

Question 427

427 You can follow the approach of a dangerous cyclonic storm by inspecting __________.

A. the National Weather Service Observing Handbook No.1, Marine Surface Observations
B. a weather fax
C. the Coast Pilot or Sailing Directions
D. the sky overhead

Answer 427

B. a weather fax

Question 428

428 According to Buys Ballot’s Law, when an observer in the Southern Hemisphere experiences a northwest wind, the center of the low pressure is located to the __________.

A. east-northeast
B. south-southwest
C. east-southeast
D. west-southwest

Answer 428

B. south-southwest

Question 429

429 The navigable semicircle of a tropical storm in the South Indian Ocean is located on which side of the storm’s track?

A. Rear
B. Front
C. Left
D. Right

Answer 429

D. Right

Question 430

430 You are underway on course 050° T and your maximum speed is 12 knots. The eye of a hurricane bears 120° T, 110 miles from your position. The hurricane is moving towards 285° T at 25 knots. If you maneuver at 12 knots to avoid the hurricane, what could be the maximum CPA?

A. 77 miles
B. 82 miles
C. 87 miles
D. 93 miles

Answer 430

A. 77 miles

Question 431

431 The Illustration shows the symbols used on radio facsimile weather charts. The symbol indicated at letter “M” represents __________. See Diagram: D042NG

A. rain
B. snow
C. hail
D. ice

Answer 431

B. snow

Question 432

432 On a working copy of a weather map, a stationary front is represented by which color line?

A. Red
B. Blue
C. Alternating red and blue
D. Purple

Answer 432

C. Alternating red and blue

Question 433

433 You are preparing a weather report form, WS Form B-80. One-half of the sky is covered with clouds, and the anemometer indicates that the apparent wind is from 340° relative at 14 knots. You are on course 307° T at 12.6 knots. How should you encode group Nddff? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 53414
B. 54013
C. 42205
D. 43013

Answer 433

C. 42205

Question 434

434 A barometer showing falling pressure indicates the approach of a __________.

A. high pressure system
B. low pressure system
C. high dew point
D. low dew point

Answer 434

B. low pressure system

Question 435

435 Cumulonimbus clouds are most likely to accompany a(n) __________.

A. high pressure system
B. cold front
C. warm front
D. occluded front

Answer 435

B. cold front

Question 436

436 Which type of cloud is indicated by the number 1? See Diagram: D039NG

A. Cirrus
B. Altostratus
C. Altocumulus
D. Nimbostratus

Answer 436

A. Cirrus

Question 437

437 You are enroute to Savannah, GA, from Recife, Brazil. There is a strong N’ly wind blowing. As you cross the axis of the Gulf Stream you would expect to encounter __________.

A. cirrus clouds
B. long swells
C. smoother seas and warmer water
D. steeper waves, closer together

Answer 437

D. steeper waves, closer together

Question 438

438 Cumulonimbus clouds are formed by __________.

A. vertical air movements
B. heavy rainstorms
C. horizontal air movements
D. any movement of moist air

Answer 438

A. vertical air movements

Question 439

439 From which type of cloud can a tornado or waterspout develop?

A. Nimbostratus
B. Altostratus
C. Cumulonimbus
D. Cirrus

Answer 439

C. Cumulonimbus

Question 440

440 You can determine if your vessel’s position is in the dangerous or navigable semicircle of a hurricane by __________.

A. observing whether the wind is veering or backing
B. plotting two or more recent storm positions from weather bulletins
C. Both A and B
D. Neither A nor B

Answer 440

C. Both A and B

Question 441

441 Which weather system produces strong cold winds called “Northers” during the winter months in the Gulf of Mexico?

A. An anticyclone
B. A high pressure system
C. A cyclone
D. Both A and B

Answer 441

D. Both A and B

Question 442

442 Which meteorological feature controls the climate of the Gulf and the Gulf Coast area during late spring and summer?

A. The Bermuda High
B. The doldrums
C. The horse latitudes
D. Tropical cyclones

Answer 442

A. The Bermuda High

Question 443

443 What indicates that a tropical cyclone may be within 500 to 1,000 miles of your position?

A. A pumping of the barometer up and down a few millibars
B. A sudden wind shift from southwest to northwest followed by steadily increasing winds
C. The normal swell pattern becoming confused, with the length of the swell increasing
D. An overcast sky with steadily increasing rain from nimbostratus clouds

Answer 443

A. A pumping of the barometer up and down a few millibars

Question 444

444 You are steaming west in the South Atlantic in an extratropical cyclonic storm, and the wind is dead ahead. According to the law of Buys Ballot, the center of low pressure lies __________.

A. to the north of you
B. to the south of you
C. dead ahead of you
D. dead astern of you

Answer 444

B. to the south of you

Question 445

445 The navigable semicircle of a typhoon in the Southern Hemisphere is the area __________.

A. behind the typhoon, measured from 90° to 180° From each side of the storm’s track
B. to the right of the storm’s track
C. ahead of the typhoon, measured from the storm’s track to 90° on each side
D. measured from due south, counterclockwise 180°

Answer 445

B. to the right of the storm’s track

Question 446

446 You are underway on course 050° T and your maximum speed is 12 knots. The eye of a hurricane bears 080° T, 100 miles from your position. The hurricane is moving towards 265° T at 22 knots. If you maneuver at 12 knots to avoid the hurricane, what could be the maximum CPA?

A. 76 miles
B. 69 miles
C. 63 miles
D. 56 miles

Answer 446

C. 63 miles

Question 447

447 You are preparing a weather report form, WS Form B-80. Three-quarters of the sky is covered with clouds, and the anemometer indicates that the apparent wind is from 226° relative at 17.7 knots. You are on course 020° T at 8 knots. How should you encode group Nddff? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 80208
B. 72218
C. 72318
D. 62324

Answer 447

D. 62324

Question 448

448 On a working copy of a weather map, a warm front is represented by what color line?

A. Red
B. Blue
C. Alternating red and blue
D. Purple

Answer 448

A. Red

Question 449

449 Stormy weather is usually associated with regions of __________.

A. high barometric pressure
B. low barometric pressure
C. steady barometric pressure
D. changing barometric pressure

Answer 449

B. low barometric pressure

Question 450

450 Steady precipitation is typical of __________.

A. coming cold weather conditions
B. a warm front weather condition
C. high pressure conditions
D. scattered cumulus clouds

Answer 450

B. a warm front weather condition

Question 451

451 After the passage of a cold front the visibility __________.

A. does not change
B. improves rapidly
C. improves only slightly
D. becomes poor

Answer 451

B. improves rapidly

Question 452

452 Which type of cloud is composed entirely of ice crystals and is found at very high altitudes?

A. Cumulus
B. Cirrus
C. Stratus
D. Nimbostratus

Answer 452

B. Cirrus

Question 453

453 Small, visible mound-like protuberances on the bottom of cumulonimbus clouds, that are potential breeding grounds for waterspouts and tornadoes, are called __________.

A. thunderheads
B. mamma
C. rime
D. ice prisms

Answer 453

B. mamma

Question 454

454 A vessel entering the eye of a hurricane should expect __________.

A. moderating winds and heavy confused seas to strike his vessel from all directions
B. the winds to increase to hurricane force and strike from a different direction as the eye passes
C. the barometer to reach the lowest point
D. All of the above

Answer 454

D. All of the above

Question 455

455 In the Northern Hemisphere, the right half of the storm is known as the dangerous semicircle because __________.

A. The wind speed is greater here since the wind is traveling in the same general direction as the storm’s track
B. the direction of the wind and seas might carry a vessel into the path of the storm
C. the seas are higher because of greater wind speed
D. All of the above

Answer 455

D. All of the above

Question 456

456 Which statement describes the prevailing wind direction in mid-winter in the Gulf Coast area?

A. 30% to 40% of mid-winter winds are from a northern quadrant.
B. 40% to 50% of mid-winter winds are from a southern quadrant.
C. the winds are variable in speed, but strongest in March.
D. None of the above

Answer 456

A. 30% to 40% of mid-winter winds are from a northern quadrant.

Question 457

457 If the current and wind are in the same direction, the sea surface represents a wind speed _______.

A. lower than actually exists
B. higher than actually exists
C. that actually exists
D. that has no proportional relationship

Answer 457

A. lower than actually exists

Question 458

458 The dangerous semicircle of a typhoon in the Southern Hemisphere is that area __________.

A. measured from due south clockwise 180°
B. measured from due south counterclockwise 180°
C. to the left of the storm’s track
D. ahead of the typhoon measured from the storm’s track to 90° on each side

Answer 458

C. to the left of the storm’s track

Question 459

459 You are underway on course 050° T and your maximum speed is 12 knots. The eye of a hurricane bears 080° T, 100 miles from your position. The hurricane is moving towards 265° T at 22 knots. What course should you steer at 12 knots to have the maximum CPA?

A. 219°
B. 208°
C. 199°
D. 190°

Answer 459

B. 208°

Question 460

460 The Illustration shows the symbols used on radio facsimile weather charts. The symbol indicated at letter “P” represents __________. See Diagram: D042NG

A. snow
B. hail
C. freezing rain
D. sleet

Answer 460

C. freezing rain

Question 461

461 What weather change accompanies the passage of a cold front in the Northern Hemisphere?

A. Wind shift from northeast clockwise to southwest
B. Steady dropping of barometric pressure
C. Steady precipitation, gradually increasing in intensity D. A line of cumulonimbus clouds

Answer 461

D. A line of cumulonimbus clouds

Question 462

462 Which is a characteristic of the weather preceding an approaching warm front?

A. Gusty winds
B. Steadily falling barometric pressure
C. Decreasing relative humidity
D. Clearing skies

Answer 462

B. Steadily falling barometric pressure

Question 463

463 Cirrus clouds are composed primarily of __________.

A. ice crystals
B. water droplets
C. snow crystals
D. nitrogen

Answer 463

A. ice crystals

Question 464

464 Which weather element cannot be measured accurately while on board a moving vessel?

A. Visibility
B. Temperature
C. Wind direction
D. Atmospheric pressure

Answer 464

A. Visibility

Question 465

465 Which condition indicates that you are in a hurricane’s dangerous semicircle in the Northern hemisphere?

A. A backing wind
B. A veering wind
C. A norther
D. A strong, gusty wind

Answer 465

B. A veering wind

Question 466

466 If the current and wind are in opposite directions, the sea surface represents __________.

A. a greatly reduced wind speed
B. a higher wind speed than what really exists
C. a lower wind speed than what really exists
D. more turbulent winds

Answer 466

B. a higher wind speed than what really exists

Question 467

467 A “Norther” in the Gulf of Mexico is __________.

A. a wind shift to the north accompanied by a drop in temperature
B. a forcible northerly wind of at least 20 knots
C. a strong northerly wind that generally occurs between November and March
D. All of the above

Answer 467

D. All of the above

Question 468

468 You are preparing a weather report form, WS Form B-80. The dry bulb thermometer reads 34° F, and the wet bulb thermometer reads 31° F. Using the ships code card, how would you encode the air temperature groups in the report? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 10340, 2127/
B. 10111, 2104/
C. 10011, 2104/
D. 10340, 2031/

Answer 468

C. 10011, 2104/

Question 469

469 The dangerous semicircle of a hurricane in the Northern Hemisphere is that area of the storm __________.

A. to the right of the storm’s track
B. measured from true north clockwise to 180° T
C. measured from true north counterclockwise to 180° T
D. between the ship’s heading and the bearing to the eye

Answer 469

A. to the right of the storm’s track

Question 470

470 You are underway on course 050° T and your maximum speed is 13 knots. The eye of a hurricane bears 100° T, 120 miles from your position. The hurricane is moving towards 275° T at 25 knots. If you maneuver at 13 knots to avoid the hurricane, what could be the maximum CPA?

A. 72 miles
B. 78 miles
C. 83 miles
D. 89 miles

Answer 470

A. 72 miles

Question 471

471 You are preparing a weather report form, WS Form B-80. The dry bulb thermometer reads 30° F (-1° C), and the wet bulb thermometer reads 28° F (-2° C). Using the Ships Code Card, how would you encode the air temperature groups in the report? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 10011, 2003/
B. 11300, 2124/
C. 11011, 2124/
D. 11011, 2104/

Answer 471

D. 11011, 2104/

Question 472

472 Shown are the symbols used on radio facsimile weather charts. The symbol indicated at letter “I” represents __________. See Diagram: D042NG

A. rain showers
B. thunderstorms
C. snow storms
D. sand storms

Answer 472

B. thunderstorms

Question 473

473 A cold front moving in from the northwest can produce __________.

A. thunderstorms, hail, and then rapid clearing
B. increasing cloud cover lasting for several days
C. lengthy wet weather
D. low ceilings with thick cirrus clouds

Answer 473

A. thunderstorms, hail, and then rapid clearing

Question 474

474 The climate of the northern Gulf coast __________.

A. is humid and subtropical throughout the year
B. has an east coast marine type of climate
C. is a warm marine type of climate
D. varies from warm to subtropical

Answer 474

C. is a warm marine type of climate

Question 475

475 The navigable semicircle of a hurricane in the Northern Hemisphere is that area of the storm measured __________.

A. from true north clockwise to 180° T
B. from true north counterclockwise to 180° T
C. from the bow counterclockwise to 180° relative
D. from the direction of the storm’s movement counterclockwise 180°

Answer 475

D. from the direction of the storm’s movement counterclockwise 180°

Question 476

476 You are underway on course 050° T and your maximum speed is 13 knots. The eye of a hurricane bears 100° T, 120 miles from your position. The hurricane is moving towards 275° T at 25 knots. What course should you steer at 13 knots to have the maximum CPA?

A. 339°
B. 333°
C. 326°
D. 320°

Answer 476

B. 333°

Question 477

477 You are preparing a weather report form, WS Form B-80. The dry bulb thermometer reads 78° F, and the wet bulb thermometer reads 75° F. How would you encode the air temperature groups in the report? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 10256, 2023/
B. 10780, 2074/
C. 00256, 0023/
D. 10256, 2074/

Answer 477

A. 10256, 2023/

Question 478

478 A line of clouds, sharp changes in wind direction, and squalls are most frequently associated with a(n) __________.

A. occluded front
B. warm front
C. cold front
D. warm sector

Answer 478

C. cold front

Question 479

479 What is the direction of rotation of tropical cyclones, tropical storms and hurricanes in the Northern Hemisphere?

A. Clockwise and outward
B. Counterclockwise and inward
C. Counterclockwise and outward
D. Clockwise and inward

Answer 479

B. Counterclockwise and inward

Question 480

480 What enables you to estimate the bearing of a storm’s center?

A. Buys Ballot’s Law
B. An educated guess
C. Pascal’s Law
D. The left-hand rule

Answer 480

A. Buys Ballot’s Law

Question 481

481 The left half of the storm is called the navigable semicircle because __________.

A. the wind speed is decreased by the storm’s forward motion
B. the wind tends to blow vessels away from the storms track
C. Both A and B
D. Neither A nor B

Answer 481

C. Both A and B

Question 482

482 You are preparing a weather report form, WS Form B-80. The dry bulb thermometer reads 54° F, and the wet bulb thermometer reads 50° F. How would you encode the air temperature groups in the report? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 1054/, 2050/
B. 10122, 2008/
C. 1054/, 2047/
D. 054//, 047//

Answer 482

B. 10122, 2008/

Question 483

483 The Illustration shows the symbols used on radio facsimile weather charts. The symbol indicated at letter “K” represents a __________. See Diagram: D042NG

A. hurricane
B. thunderstorm
C. convergence zone
D. convergence line

Answer 483

A. hurricane

Question 484

484 Which weather change accompanies the passage of a cold front in the Northern Hemisphere?

A. Wind shift from northeast, clockwise to southwest
B. Steady dropping of barometric pressure
C. Steady precipitation, gradually increasing in intensity
D. A line of cumulonimbus clouds

Answer 484

D. A line of cumulonimbus clouds

Question 485

485 In the Southern Hemisphere winds in a low pressure system rotate in a __________.

A. clockwise direction
B. northeasterly direction
C. northerly direction
D. counterclockwise direction

Answer 485

A. clockwise direction

Question 486

486 In the Northern hemisphere which semicircle of a hurricane is the navigable semicircle?

A. Left
B. Right
C. Front
D. Back

Answer 486

A. Left

Question 487

487 Which weather element cannot be measured accurately while on board a moving vessel?

A. Relative humidity
B. Atmospheric pressure
C. Temperature
D. Wave period

Answer 487

D. Wave period

Question 488

488 You are preparing a weather report form, WS Form B-80. Your position is LAT 64° 42’ N, LONG 02° 28’ W. How would this be encoded? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 90647, 90024
B. 0647N, 00025
C. 99647, 70025
D. 9064N, 9025W

Answer 488

C. 99647, 70025

Question 489

489 Which condition will occur after a cold front passes?

A. Temperature rises
B. Stratus clouds form
C. Pressure decreases
D. Humidity decreases

Answer 489

D. Humidity decreases

Question 490

490 In the Northern Hemisphere, if your vessel is in a hurricane’s navigable semicircle it should be positioned with the wind on the __________.

A. starboard quarter, hold course and make as much speed as possible
B. port bow, hold course and make as much speed as possible until the hurricane has passed
C. port quarter, maintain course and make as much speed as possible
D. starboard bow and heave to until the hurricane has passed

Answer 490

A. starboard quarter, hold course and make as much speed as possible

Question 491

491 The symbols shown are used on radio facsimile weather charts. The symbol indicated at letter “G” represents a __________. See Diagram: D042NG

A. weather boundary
B. thunderstorm
C. wide spread sandstorm
D. severe, line squall

Answer 491

D. severe, line squall

Question 492

492 After a cold front passes the barometric pressure usually __________.

A. fluctuates
B. remains the same
C. remains the same, with clouds forming rapidly
D. rises, often quite rapidly, with clearing skies

Answer 492

D. rises, often quite rapidly, with clearing skies

Question 493

493 Which condition suggests that your present position lies in the navigable semicircle of a tropical storm?

A. A backing wind
B. A veering wind
C. Sustained gale force winds
D. A strong wind that maintains a constant speed and direction

Answer 493

A. A backing wind

Question 494

494 In the Northern Hemisphere, an observer at point II in the weather system should experience a wind shift from the __________. See Diagram: D014NG

A. southwest, clockwise to northwest
B. northeast, clockwise to west-southwest
C. northeast, counterclockwise to northwest
D. east, counterclockwise to south-southwest

Answer 494

A. southwest, clockwise to northwest

Question 495

495 The Illustration shows the symbols used on radio facsimile weather charts. The symbol indicated at letter “H” represents __________. See Diagram: D042NG

A. ice
B. snow
C. rain
D. hail

Answer 495

D. hail

Question 496

496 Your vessel is enroute from Japan to Seattle and is located at position I on the weather map. You should experience which weather condition? See Diagram: D013NG

A. Clear skies with warm temperatures
B. Steady precipitation
C. Overcast skies with rising temperature
D. Thundershowers

Answer 496

D. Thundershowers

Question 497

497 You are hove to in a hurricane on a heading of 328° T. The wind is from 030° true at 119 knots. How should this be encoded on the weather report form under Nddff? See Diagram: D041NG

A. 80312
B. 83011
C. 83099
D. 80399

Answer 497

D. 80399

Question 498

498 Your facsimile prognostic chart indicates that you will cross the cold front of a low pressure system in about 24 hours. You should __________.

A. expect to see cirrus clouds followed by altostratus and nimbostratus clouds
B. alter course to remain in the navigable semicircle
C. prepare for gusty winds, thunderstorms, and a sudden wind shift
D. expect clear weather, with steady winds and pressure, until the front passes

Answer 498

C. prepare for gusty winds, thunderstorms, and a sudden wind shift

Question 499

499 The symbols shown are used on radio facsimile weather charts. The symbol indicated at letter “O” represents __________. See Diagram: D042NG

A. sandstorms
B. thunderstorms
C. snow
D. rain showers

Answer 499

A. sandstorms

Question 500

500 On a weather map, a large letter “H” means __________.

A. a high pressure area with cool, dry air, and fair weather
B. a high pressure area with warm, moist air, and inclement weather
C. horse latitudes, with rough seas and strong winds
D. a heavy squall line near the “H”

Answer 500

A. a high pressure area with cool, dry air, and fair weather

Question 501

501 The greater the pressure difference between a high and a low pressure center, the __________.

A. dryer the air mass will be
B. cooler the temperature will be
C. greater the force of the wind will be
D. warmer the temperature will be

Answer 501

C. greater the force of the wind will be