AB AB Meteorology and Weather Observation 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does a rapidly falling barometer indicate?
- Approaching storm (Correct answer)
- Fair weather
- Clearing skies
- Light winds
Correct answer: Approaching storm
A rapidly falling barometer indicates an approaching storm or rapidly deteriorating weather conditions.
Question 2: What is the Beaufort scale used to measure?
- Wind force and sea state (Correct answer)
- Ocean depth
- Tidal current speed
- Barometric pressure
Correct answer: Wind force and sea state
The Beaufort scale is an empirical measure that rates wind force from 0 (calm) to 12 (hurricane) along with the corresponding sea state.
Question 3: A 'backing' wind shifts in which direction?
- Counterclockwise (e.g., S to E) (Correct answer)
- Clockwise (e.g., S to W)
- Northward only
- Southward only
Correct answer: Counterclockwise (e.g., S to E)
A backing wind shifts counterclockwise in direction and often signals deteriorating weather or an approaching frontal system.
Question 4: Which cloud type typically appears first ahead of an advancing warm front?
- Cirrus (Correct answer)
- Cumulus
- Stratus
- Cumulonimbus
Correct answer: Cirrus
Cirrus clouds, high and wispy, are the first to appear far ahead of a warm front and signal its approach 24–48 hours out.
Question 5: What is the approximate wind speed range for Beaufort Force 6?
- 22–27 knots (Correct answer)
- 8–12 knots
- 34–40 knots
- 47–54 knots
Correct answer: 22–27 knots
Beaufort Force 6, called a 'strong breeze,' corresponds to winds of 22–27 knots with large waves beginning to form.
Question 6: According to Buys-Ballot's Law in the Northern Hemisphere, if you stand with the wind at your back, where is the low-pressure center?
- To your left and slightly ahead (Correct answer)
- Directly ahead of you
- To your right and slightly ahead
- Directly behind you
Correct answer: To your left and slightly ahead
Buys-Ballot's Law states that in the Northern Hemisphere, standing with the wind at your back places the low-pressure center to your left and slightly ahead.
AB AB Meteorology and Weather Observation 1
What does a rapidly falling barometer indicate?