CPL Meteorology and Weather Interpretation 3

Question 1

What causes a temperature inversion near the surface?

Accepted Answer

Radiational cooling of the ground on clear, calm nights

Answer

Radiational cooling on clear, calm nights causes the surface to lose heat, creating a layer where temperature increases with altitude.

Question 2

A Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) reads 'BECMG 1416 BKN010'. What does 'BECMG' mean?

Accepted Answer

Becoming (gradual change)

Answer

'BECMG' indicates conditions are expected to gradually change to the stated values within the specified time period.

Question 3

Which wind shear condition is most hazardous during approach to landing?

Accepted Answer

Headwind increasing then becoming tailwind on short final

Answer

A headwind decreasing and transitioning to tailwind causes rapid airspeed loss, requiring immediate power addition to avoid stall.

Question 4

What is a squall line?

Accepted Answer

A narrow band of active thunderstorms ahead of a cold front

Answer

A squall line is a line or band of active cumulonimbus cells that typically forms 50–300 miles ahead of a cold front.

Question 5

At what altitude is the standard atmosphere tropopause located at mid-latitudes?

Accepted Answer

36,000 feet MSL

Answer

The standard atmosphere tropopause at mid-latitudes is approximately 36,000 feet (11 km) MSL.

(CPL) Commercial Pilot Licence Practice Test