1/17
These flashcards cover key concepts related to the development of high and low-pressure systems in meteorology, focusing on mechanisms such as extratropical cyclones, pressure imbalances, and air movement.
Name | Mastery | Learn | Test | Matching | Spaced |
---|
No study sessions yet.
Extratropical Cyclones
Weather systems developing due to imbalances between pressure gradient force (PGF) and Coriolis force.
Friction in Boundary Layer
Friction acts primarily in the boundary layer and ultimately destroys extratropical cyclones.
Convergence
The process in an air column where weight increases, leading to rising surface pressure.
Divergence
The process in an air column where weight decreases, leading to falling surface pressure.
Vertical Motions
Movements related to convergence and divergence fields in the atmosphere.
Hydrostatic Balance
Condition where air rises or falls due to compression or evacuation of air.
Cyclone
A weather system associated with clouds and precipitation.
Anticyclone
A weather system associated with clear skies.
Curved Flow
The flow of air causing changes in pressure and direction between isobars.
Geostrophic Flow
The theoretical flow of air in balance with the pressure gradient force and Coriolis force.
Subgeostrophic Flow
Flow that is slower than the geostrophic value.
Supergeostrophic Flow
Flow that is faster than the geostrophic value.
Curvature Effect
Mechanism influencing the creation of low and high-pressure centers.
Jetstreaks
Regions of increased wind speed in the jet stream that influence divergence and convergence.
Friction Layer
Layer where friction reduces wind speed and alters air flow direction.
Latent Heating
Increase in temperature due to the release of latent heat during condensation.
Radiative Cooling
Decrease in temperature due to the loss of heat energy to space.
Intensification of Low Pressure & Weakening of High Pressure
Occurs when divergence aloft exceeds convergence at the surface.