Questions and Answers
What is stable air vs. unstable air?
Stable air is when warm air stays above cold air, leading to calm weather; unstable air occurs with quick temperature changes and can cause sudden thunderstorms.
What kind of cloud does unstable air create and why?
Cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds are formed by unstable air due to a quick change in temperature.
What kind of cloud does stable air create and why?
Stratus clouds are formed in stable air due to forced uplift as warm air remains above cold air, forming uniform grayish horizontal layers.
What are the conditions necessary for the formation of a cumulonimbus cloud?
Signup and view all the answers
Why do pilots prefer to fly in the stratosphere as opposed to the troposphere?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Stability of Air
- Stable Air: Occurs when warm air remains above colder air, leading to calm weather conditions.
- Unstable Air: Characterized by rapid temperature changes, which can result in sudden thunderstorms.
Cloud Formation
- Unstable Air Clouds: Cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds are formed due to unstable air; quick temperature changes cause air to rise quickly and reach its dew point, resulting in high humidity.
- Stable Air Clouds: Stratus clouds develop in stable air through forced uplift. Warm air remains above the cold air, creating uniform grayish horizontal layers.
Cumulonimbus Cloud Conditions
- Formation requires both unstable and very humid air conditions.
Pilot Flight Preference
- Pilots favor flying in the stratosphere over the troposphere due to reduced turbulence, enhancing flight stability.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
This quiz focuses on the concepts of stable and unstable air as covered in Unit 4. It includes key terms and definitions related to weather stability, cloud formation, and atmospheric conditions. Test your knowledge about how temperature changes affect weather patterns.
