CBM Numerical Weather Prediction and Forecast Models

Question 1

What does the acronym GFS stand for in operational weather forecasting?

Accepted Answer

Global Forecast System

Answer

General Frontal Scheme

Answer

Gridded Forecast Summary

Answer

Geophysical Flux Simulation

Question 2

Which numerical weather prediction model is known for consistently high skill in medium-range forecasting and is operated by a European consortium?

Accepted Answer

ECMWF

Answer

NAM

Answer

GFS

Answer

RAP

Question 3

The North American Mesoscale (NAM) model is best suited for which forecast time range?

Accepted Answer

0–84 hours

Answer

84–240 hours

Answer

240–384 hours

Answer

10–30 days

Question 4

What is 'data assimilation' in the context of numerical weather prediction?

Accepted Answer

The process of combining observations with a prior model state to create an optimal initial analysis

Answer

Converting model output into broadcast graphics

Answer

Downloading model data from NCEP servers

Answer

Applying statistical corrections to model temperature forecasts

Question 5

In ensemble forecasting, what does a large spread among ensemble members generally indicate?

Accepted Answer

Low forecast confidence and greater atmospheric uncertainty

Answer

High forecast confidence

Answer

A deterministic outcome

Answer

Model initialization errors only

Question 6

Which of the following best describes 'model grid spacing' and its effect on forecast quality?

Accepted Answer

Finer grid spacing generally resolves smaller-scale features more accurately but requires more computing power

Answer

Coarser grid spacing improves short-range accuracy by averaging noise

Answer

Grid spacing only affects precipitation forecasts, not temperature

Answer

All operational models use the same standard grid spacing

Question 7

How many times per day does NCEP operationally run the GFS model?

Accepted Answer

Four times (00Z, 06Z, 12Z, and 18Z)

Answer

Two times (00Z and 12Z)

Answer

Once per day at 00Z

Answer

Six times per day every four hours