Air Mass Classification Scheme

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Questions and Answers

What are the two-letter classifications used to describe the general temperature and moisture characteristics of air masses?

Polar (P), Tropical (T), Maritime (m), Continental (c)

Where do the Polar (P) air masses originate?

Polar latitudes

What type of air masses are denoted by 'cT'?

Continental tropical

How are continental air masses modified by daytime heating and cooling?

More strongly Signup and view all the answers

What are the two criteria for an ideal source region?

Extensive and physically uniform area, general stability of atmospheric circulation Signup and view all the answers

What kind of areas are usually considered ideal source regions?

Areas dominated by high pressure, such as ice and snow-covered arctic plains in winter and subtropical oceans and desert regions in summer Signup and view all the answers

Why are the middle latitudes not considered good source regions?

Middle latitudes are a transition zone where air masses with different physical properties move in, clash, and produce an exciting array of weather activity Signup and view all the answers

How do changes in air mass type influence the character of the weather?

Changes in air mass type influence the character of the weather by either maintaining similar weather for weeks on end or causing almost daily changes as wind directions change and different weather systems pass through Signup and view all the answers

What are the characteristics of the mP air mass?

low dew points, cold temperatures, high degree of stability, and near saturation Signup and view all the answers

How does precipitation in association with (cP) air compare to mP air?

Precipitation in association with cP air is usually light due to the dryness and low moisture capacity of the air, while mP air near saturation can produce widespread fog, snow, drizzle, and long-lasting light to moderate rain. Signup and view all the answers