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Questions and Answers

What does a wind shaft on a weather chart primarily indicate?

  • The speed of the wind in knots.
  • The temperature of the air mass.
  • The direction from which the wind is blowing. (correct)
  • The level of humidity in the air.

What is the wind speed indicated by a short barb on a wind shaft?

  • 10 knots
  • 50 knots
  • 15 knots
  • 5 knots (correct)

On which side of the wind shaft are the barbs always drawn?

  • The high-pressure side
  • The side facing the wind direction
  • The cyclonic (low pressure) side (correct)
  • The warm front side

What wind speed does a pennant on a wind shaft represent?

<p>50 knots (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering a weather chart with a wind shaft showing one long barb and one short barb, what is the total wind speed indicated?

<p>15 knots (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following weather conditions is represented by the symbol of a single dot?

<p>Drizzle (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

On a weather chart, what does the symbol of a snowflake represent?

<p>Snow (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which atmospheric condition is indicated by the term 'Dry haze' on a weather chart?

<p>Reduced visibility due to fine particles (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the northern hemisphere, how do air masses typically flow around a high-pressure system on a surface weather chart?

<p>In a clockwise direction, flowing out of the high at a small angle to the isobars. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a small distance between isobars on a surface weather chart indicate?

<p>Strong wind speed (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the reference level used for pressure visualization on surface weather charts?

<p>Mean Sea Level (MSL) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A pilot is reviewing a surface weather chart and observes a significant distance between isobars. What weather condition can the pilot infer from this observation?

<p>Low wind conditions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the primary function of a surface weather chart?

<p>To offer a broad overview of current and forecast weather conditions over a large area at a specific time. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A pilot is preparing for a flight and notices that the isobars on the surface weather chart are very closely packed together. What weather phenomenon should the pilot anticipate during the flight?

<p>Strong winds and potential turbulence (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Surface weather charts use coded graphic forms to represent a variety of weather data. What does this imply for interpreting these charts accurately?

<p>The data is standardized and presented according to globally consistent criteria. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a METAR report, what does 'BECMG' indicate?

<p>A gradual change in weather conditions is expected over a period of time. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At 14 UTC, considering the cloud cover description, what fraction of the sky is covered by clouds?

<p>Three to four eighths (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A METAR report reads 'BKN010'. What does this signify about the cloud cover?

<p>Broken cloud cover at 1000 feet above ground level. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does 'Q1017' represent in a METAR report?

<p>The QNH, which is the altimeter setting to use to read field elevation when on the ground. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor the weather radar uses to determine the distance of precipitation?

<p>The difference in propagation time of the emitted wave. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a METAR, '18015G25KT' indicates the wind is from 180 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots. If an aircraft is landing with this wind, which of the following is most accurate?

<p>A crosswind component that needs to be determined based on the runway heading, with possible gusts affecting control. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A weather radar uses C-band radiation with a wavelength between 4 and 7.5 cm. What happens to portions of this radiation when it encounters precipitation?

<p>It may pass through, be absorbed, scattered, or reflected. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF)?

<p>To offer a short-term weather forecast for specific airports, aiding in flight planning. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At 17 UTC, the prevailing wind is from 240 degrees at 10 KT, but there are temporary shifts. What is the maximum gust speed recorded during these temporary conditions?

<p>35 KT (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a METAR reports 'M01/M03', what does this indicate?

<p>The temperature is -1°C and the dew point is -3°C. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor most significantly affects the intensity of reflection detected by weather radar?

<p>The type, size, and distance of the obstacle. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Assuming the Dresden radar location is accurately represented, what would be the limitation of using data from a location 200 km away from Dresden?

<p>The measurements might not be meaningful due to exceeding the reliable range. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A METAR contains the abbreviation 'SN'. Which weather phenomenon is being reported?

<p>Snow (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In aviation meteorology, what is the significance of the dew point temperature?

<p>It helps determine the likelihood of fog, frost, or icing. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At 17 UTC, what is the weather condition besides the prevailing wind?

<p>Mostly no significant weather phenomena, but temporary heavy snow showers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does a weather radar differentiate between light rain and heavy rain?

<p>By measuring the strength of the reflected signal. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A METAR report contains BECMG indicating a transition. How will the weather conditions change according to this?

<p>The report indicates a permanent shift from the original conditions to new conditions, completed within 2 hours. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a METAR, what does TEMPO signify regarding changes in weather conditions?

<p>A temporary change where conditions fluctuate but return to the original state within the observation period. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a METAR includes 'BECMG 1416/1418', what does this indicate about the expected weather transition?

<p>A transition in weather conditions is expected to occur between 1600 UTC and 1800 UTC on the 14th of the month. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of aviation meteorology, why is it crucial for pilots to understand METAR codes like BECMG and TEMPO?

<p>To anticipate short-term weather fluctuations that could impact flight safety and planning. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A pilot reviews a METAR containing TEMPO 2022/2023. What action should the pilot consider based on this information?

<p>Anticipate temporary changes between 2200 UTC and 2300 UTC on the 20th, and plan accordingly for potential fluctuations. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a METAR includes both BECMG and TEMPO groups, how should a pilot interpret these forecasts in conjunction?

<p>Plan for an initial period of fluctuating conditions (<code>TEMPO</code>) leading to a more stable differing state (<code>BECMG</code>). (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a METAR report, several parameters can change with BECMG or TEMPO. Which of the following parameters is NOT typically specified to change?

<p>Aircraft type (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the duration of weather changes indicated by BECMG differ from those indicated by TEMPO in a METAR report?

<p><code>BECMG</code> specifies a complete change to new conditions, while <code>TEMPO</code> specifies temporary fluctuations that revert to the initial state. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A weather radar detects precipitation by measuring the reflection of radio waves. How does the size of a water droplet affect the strength of the reflected signal?

<p>The reflection strength is directly proportional to the diameter of the droplet to the sixth power ($D^6$). (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are small cloud droplets typically not detected by weather radar?

<p>Small cloud droplets produce a very weak reflection due to their size. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A weather radar shows a narrowly defined echo with rapidly changing colors. What type of precipitation is most likely occurring?

<p>Showers or thunderstorms from Cumulonimbus clouds. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What weather phenomenon would most likely be associated with radar imagery showing a large area echo of uniform color?

<p>Continuous rainfall (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If radar imagery indicates a precipitation event but it's unclear whether it’s a shower or thunderstorm, what additional information would be most useful?

<p>Lightning strike data. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which cloud type is primarily associated with continuous rainfall, as detected by weather radar?

<p>Nimbostratus (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What atmospheric condition typically leads to the formation of Nimbostratus clouds and continuous precipitation?

<p>Stable, stratified atmosphere. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider a scenario where a weather radar detects a strong echo from a localized area. Based on this information, which of the following can be inferred?

<p>There are likely large precipitation particles present. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Surface Weather Chart

Graphical representation of weather data, using coded symbols, showing current weather conditions over a large area.

MSL Level

Mean Sea Level. The standard reference point for pressure readings on surface weather charts.

Air flow around a High (Northern Hemisphere)

Air flows outward in a clockwise direction at a slight angle to isobars.

Air flow around a Low (Northern Hemisphere)

Air flows inward in a counter-clockwise direction at a slight angle to isobars.

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Large distance between isobars indicates...

Low wind speed.

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Small distance between isobars indicates...

Strong wind speed.

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METAR

A coded report of surface weather observations at a specific location and time.

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TAF

A forecast of expected weather conditions within a 5 nautical mile radius of an airport.

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Drizzle

Light rain, small droplets.

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Dry Haze

Reduced visibility due to small, dry particles in the air.

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Mist (Feuchter Dunst)

Reduced visibility due to water droplets.

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Rain Shower

A brief, localized period of rainfall.

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Schnee/Snow

Frozen precipitation.

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Wind Shaft

Indicates the direction the wind is blowing from.

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Wind Barbs

Indicate the force/speed of the wind.

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Knots (kn or kt)

Unit of wind speed

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What is METAR?

A standard format for reporting weather information.

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What does 'BECMG' mean in METAR?

A METAR element indicating a transition to new weather conditions, wind, visibility or clouds.

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What does 'TEMPO' mean in METAR?

In METAR, it represents temporary fluctuations in weather, wind, visibility, or clouds.

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What does 'NOSIG' mean in METAR?

In METAR, this indicates there is no significant change expected.

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How do METAR reports specify changes?

Only elements that change significantly are included.

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What is the time frame for 'BECMG' changes?

New conditions arrive within the next 2 hours, with a permanent change by the end.

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What is the time restraints for 'TEMPO' changes?

A transition lasting no more than one hour at a time.

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After temporary shifts, what happens?

The atmosphere tends to revert to its previous state after a shift.

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Wind Information

Wind direction in degrees and speed in knots.

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Cloud Information

Amount of sky covered by clouds, measured in eighths; height of cloud base.

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Visibility

Horizontal distance a person can see.

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TEMPO (Temporary)

Temporary change in wind direction, speed, and gusts.

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Heavy Snow Showers

Brief periods of heavy snow showers.

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Weather Radar

Radar used to detect precipitation intensity and location.

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Radar Range

Distance within which weather radar can provide meaningful measurements.

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Radar Principle

Radar emits waves, which reflect off precipitation; distance and intensity are calculated from the return signal.

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NOSIG

No Significant Change. Indicates no notable changes expected in weather conditions.

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EDDL in METAR

Airport identifier. Here, it indicates Düsseldorf Airport.

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201920z in METAR

Date and time of the METAR observation: 20th day of the month at 19:20 UTC.

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18015G25KT in METAR

Wind direction and speed: from 180 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots.

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2000 BR in METAR

Visibility: 2000 meters due to mist (BR).

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SCT030 in METAR

Cloud cover: Scattered (3-4 eighths) at 3000 feet above ground.

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TAF (Terminal Aerodrome Forecast)

A forecast for the expected weather conditions at an airport.

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Weather radar function

Measures distance using impulse reflection; ground-based.

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Reflection Strength & Droplet Size

Reflection strength is proportional to droplet diameter to the 6th power (D6).

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Showers and Thunderstorms

Cumulonimbus clouds cause precipitation limited in time and location.

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Radar Image of Thunderstorms

Narrowly defined echoes with great color variation.

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Shower vs. Thunderstorm

Use a lightning map for clarification.

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Continuous Rainfall

Nimbostratus clouds cause precipitation in a large area for a long time.

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Radar Image of Continuous Rain

Extended echo that varies only slightly in color.

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Atmospheric Condition for Rain

Stable, stratified.

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Study Notes

Weather Maps

  • Provide coded graphic forms of weather data determined according to worldwide criteria
  • MSL (Mean Sea Level) is used as the reference level for pressure visualization.
  • These maps provide an overview of the current and forecast weather situation
  • Covers a very large area such as Germany (1:5 million) or Europe (1:15 million)
  • The air masses flow clockwise out of a high at a small angle to the isobars in the northern hemisphere
  • The air masses flow counter-clockwise into a low at a small angle to the isobars in the northern hemisphere
  • A large distance between isobars indicates low wind with a small distance indicates strong wind
  • Fronts move in the direction that symbols point
  • Weather phenomena symbols represent basic weather conditions.
  • The intensity and type are displayed in different combinations
  • Wind shafts indicate wind direction
  • Barbs indicate wind force, always drawn on the cyclonic (low pressure) side
    • Short barb: 5 knots
    • Long barb: 10 knots
    • Pennant: 50 knots

Upper Air Charts

  • Upper air charts can be created for almost any altitude range within the troposphere
  • They use various combined weather elements like pressure, temperature, humidity, and wind
  • Isohypses(lines connecting places of equal height on a pressure level), are used instead of isobars
  • Air masses flow clockwise, parallel to the isohypses around a high (in the northern hemisphere)
  • Air masses flow anti-clockwise, parallel to the isohypses around a low (in the northern hemisphere)
  • A large distance between the isohypses indicates low wind with a small distance indicates strong wind

METAR (METeorological Aviation Routine Weather Report)

  • Routinely-issued weather reports which include current weather conditions at an airport with possible addition information
  • Observation times are issued h + 20 and h + 50
  • Contains the following:
    • Wind
    • Visibility
    • Weather phenomenon
    • Clouds
    • Temperatures
    • QNH
    • Trend
  • An attached weather forecast (TREND) is valid for 2 hours from the time of issue

Decoding METAR

  • Parameters that change significantly according to defined criteria are specified
  • BECMG means a transition to new weather phenomena, wind, visibility or clouds, which begins and ends within 2 hours
  • TEMPO is a temporary change in these factors, where the basic status is restored within 2 hours
  • NOSIG means no significant change is expected

TAF (Teminal Aerodrome Forecast)

  • Routinely issued forecast products for airports
  • Serves as a planning document for a future period.
  • Includes long-term and short-term TAFs
    • Long-term TAF: every 6 hours, validity of 24 or 30 hours
    • Short-term TAF: every 3 hours during operating time, validity of 9 hours
  • Includes precisely predicted values:
    • Wind
    • Visibility
    • Weather phenomena
    • Clouds
    • Sometimes Maximum and Minimum temperatures (not in Germany)
  • Only parameters that change significantly are specified with weather phenomena coded for visibility deterioration
  • NOSIG is not used
  • BECMG 0917/0920 means a transition to new weather phenomena, wind, visibility/clouds. Change starts earliest on 09th at 17 UTC and ends latest on 09th at 20 UTC
  • Complete weather description given with FM (From) at a specified time and if necessary, the end of the change is described with TL (till)

Weather Radar

  • Used to find precipitation through reflected emitted waves.
  • Distance is based on the difference in propagation time
  • Intensity is based on the strength of the reflected signal
  • Pulses with a fixed wavelength are used (DWD uses C-band with wavelength 4 to 7.5 cm)
  • Radiation is either absorbed, scattered, or reflected and displayed
  • Intensity of reflection depends on type, size & distance of obstacle.
  • Larger reflecting particles give stronger reflections with small drops not being recognized.
  • Showers/thunderstorms: narrowly defined echoes that vary greatly in color
  • Continuous rainfall: extended echo that varies only slightly in color

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