Podcast
Questions and Answers
What atmospheric phenomenon primarily causes tornadoes to form?
What atmospheric phenomenon primarily causes tornadoes to form?
Which region is most commonly associated with tornado formation in the United States?
Which region is most commonly associated with tornado formation in the United States?
How does the speed of air circulation in a tornado funnel impact its formation?
How does the speed of air circulation in a tornado funnel impact its formation?
What is the average duration of a typical thunderstorm compared to a supercell?
What is the average duration of a typical thunderstorm compared to a supercell?
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What combination of air masses is primarily responsible for the development of tornadoes?
What combination of air masses is primarily responsible for the development of tornadoes?
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Study Notes
Tornado Formation
- Warm air rises, causing rotation due to surrounding winds, creating a funnel.
- Faster spinning air in the funnel creates a low-pressure area which pulls in air and objects.
- Ordinary thunderstorms last 30-60 minutes, but supercells can persist for hours.
Tornado Prevalence
- Tornadoes occur globally, but the US experiences the most, with roughly 1,200 annually.
- "Tornado Alley" is a high-risk area due to specific geographic factors.
- Dry air from the Rockies, warm/humid Gulf air, and cool Arctic air meet, creating ideal conditions for powerful storm formation and tornadoes.
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Description
Discover the science behind tornado formation, including how warm air and surrounding winds create rotation and funnels. Explore the geographic factors that make certain areas, like Tornado Alley in the U.S., particularly prone to these powerful storms.