American Meteorological Society Certification Synoptic Meteorology

Question 1

What type of front forms when a cold front overtakes a warm front?

Accepted Answer

Occluded front

Answer

An occluded front forms when the faster-moving cold front catches and lifts the warm front off the surface.

Question 2

On a surface weather map, isobars that are closely spaced indicate what?

Accepted Answer

Strong pressure gradient and strong winds

Answer

Closely spaced isobars indicate a steep pressure gradient, which drives stronger winds.

Question 3

What is the Bergen School cyclone model?

Accepted Answer

The Norwegian model describing extratropical cyclone life cycle

Answer

The Norwegian (Bergen School) cyclone model describes how extratropical cyclones develop, mature, and occlude.

Question 4

Which surface feature is commonly found along the boundary between dry continental and moist Gulf of Mexico air in the US?

Accepted Answer

Dryline

Answer

The dryline is a moisture boundary common over the US Great Plains, separating moist Gulf air from dry continental air.

Question 5

500 hPa height charts are used primarily to analyze what?

Accepted Answer

Mid-tropospheric steering flow and troughs/ridges

Answer

500 hPa charts depict mid-tropospheric flow, showing troughs, ridges, and the steering layer for weather systems.

American Meteorological Society Certification Practice Test