6th Grade FCAT/SSS-Aligned Earth Systems & Weather Phenomena

Flashcards covering key topics in Earth Systems and Weather Phenomena for 6th grade.

What best describes weather?

Conditions of the atmosphere at a particular place and time.

Which factor has the greatest long-term effect on climate?

Ocean currents.

Explain why two towns at the same latitude can have different climates.

One town may be coastal and experience maritime influence, while the other is inland with a continental climate.

What is the main energy source that drives a hurricane?

Heat released when water vapor condenses.

Where is a tornado most likely to form?

In a severe thunderstorm where warm, moist air meets cold, dry air.

Based on observed wind speeds, which part of the storm is most likely to produce tornadoes?

Hour 2 to 3.

What are two safety steps to take during a thunderstorm?

Stay indoors and avoid tall objects like trees.

Which describes a cold front?

Cold air pushing into warm air.

What occurs when warm, moist air meets cold, dry air?

A front forms, possibly causing storms.

Draw a simple diagram of a cold front and explain the weather associated with it.

Cold air lifts warm air, leading to precipitation and cloud formation.

What is a prolonged dry period with below-average rainfall called?

Drought.

How does drought increase the risk of wildfires?

Plant materials become drier and easier to ignite.

Which sun safety measure is least effective?

Wearing thin, dark clothing that absorbs heat.

List three sun safety measures Maria should take while playing soccer.

Apply sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and stay in shade.

Which instrument measures atmospheric pressure?

Barometer.

What does a rain gauge measure?

Precipitation amount.

How does pressure relate to weather?

Lower pressure tends to be associated with unstable weather and storms.

How would you use a thermometer, barometer, and hygrometer to predict a storm?

Measure temperature, pressure changes, and humidity levels to assess storm likelihood.

What does the comparison between Mia in Miami and Jordan in Denver show about weather vs. climate?

Weather describes short-term conditions; climate describes long-term patterns.

What is a long-term climate trend?

A gradual change in average temperature over several years.

What energy causes a storm to strengthen into a hurricane?

Heat energy from warm ocean water evaporating and condensing.

What type of severe weather is likely to develop when warm, moist air meets cold, dry air?

A tornado.

What safety step helps prevent damage from lightning?

Installing a lightning rod that directs electric current safely into the ground.

What does a weather map showing a stationary front indicate?

Extended precipitation due to a cold and warm front meeting.

What explains the weather change after a cold front passes through?

Cold air pushes warm air upward, bringing cooler, dry air.

What natural event causes dry conditions and increased fire risk?

Drought.

What actions protect against sun damage during high UV index?

Wearing long sleeves, using sunscreen, and staying in the shade.

What indicates a storm is approaching based on observed weather data?

Falling barometric pressure and dark clouds.

Which two instruments help predict storm arrival?

Barometer and anemometer.

Which Earth systems interact after a hurricane causes flooding?

Geosphere, biosphere, and hydrosphere.

What climate type is likely for a city with high rainfall and little temperature change year-round?

Tropical.