27 Questions
What is the primary objective of Chapter 6?
To outline the processes in the hydrologic cycle
What percentage of moisture saturation is used to calculate relative humidity?
100%
What happens to air that rises, expands, and cools according to adiabatic lapse rates?
It cools and expands
Why is freshwater a limited and precious resource?
Because of its scarcity on Earth's surface
What is the relationship between relative humidity and air temperature?
Relative humidity increases as air temperature decreases
What is the primary source of energy used in evaporation and condensation?
Solar energy
What happens when air reaches its dew point temperature?
Water vapor condenses into droplets
What is the term for the actual amount of water vapor in the air?
Absolute humidity
What is the result of a billion tons of water condensing out of the atmosphere?
A release of immense energy
What is the primary driver of the Earth's water cycle?
Solar energy
What is the term for the temperature at which air can no longer hold any more water vapor?
Dew point temperature
What happens to sweat when the relative humidity is high?
It does not evaporate
What is the process by which plants give up water?
Transpiration
What is the term for the combined effects of evaporation and transpiration?
Evapotranspiration
What is the effect of no wind on evaporation rates?
The air that overlies a water surface will approach saturation
What is the relationship between the amount of water and evaporation rates?
Evaporation rates are higher over oceans
What happens when the environmental lapse rate is less than the moist adiabatic rate?
The atmosphere is absolutely stable
What is the characteristic of a rising air parcel in an absolutely unstable atmosphere?
It is warmer and less dense than its surroundings
What is the result of a rising air parcel in a conditionally unstable atmosphere?
It will continue to rise if bumped upward
What is necessary for an absolutely stable atmosphere?
The surface air must be cooled or the air aloft must be warmed
What determines the buoyant force acting on an air parcel?
The difference in temperature between the air parcel and its surroundings
What is the result of a rising air parcel in an absolutely stable atmosphere?
It will sink back down if bumped upward
What is the condition required for dew to form on objects near the ground’s surface?
The object cools below the dew point.
What type of clouds are associated with rain-producing systems?
Altostratus and Nimbostratus
What is the difference between dew and frost?
Dew forms when the temperature is above freezing, while frost forms when the temperature is below freezing.
Which of the following cloud types is characterized by vertical development?
Cumulus and Cumulonimbus
What is the main characteristic of high clouds?
They are composed of ice crystals and appear as thin, wispy lines.
Assess your understanding of humidity, condensation, and precipitation. This chapter covers the hydrologic cycle, freshwater resources, and water circulation processes. Review and test your knowledge of these essential concepts.
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