MCA CoC Meteorology & Seamanship

Question 1

What is the Beaufort Wind Scale and what force indicates a 'near gale'?

Accepted Answer

A scale from 0-12 measuring wind speed by observable effects; Force 7 is near gale (28-33 knots)

Answer

A scale measuring wave height from 0-10; Force 7 means 7-metre waves

Answer

A numerical system for categorising fog visibility; 7 means 700 metre visibility

Answer

A scale of storm intensity from 0-5 used in Shipping Forecasts

Question 2

What does a rapidly falling barometer indicate?

Accepted Answer

Approach of a deep depression with deteriorating weather — increasing winds and precipitation likely

Answer

Approaching high pressure and improving weather

Answer

Stable weather conditions ahead

Answer

A local sea breeze effect with no general weather significance

Question 3

What is a 'synoptic chart' and how is it used in marine meteorology?

Accepted Answer

A weather chart showing isobars, fronts, and pressure systems at a specific time — used to identify wind patterns, frontal systems, and forecast weather

Answer

A chart showing wave height and swell direction

Answer

A chart showing sea temperature variations

Answer

A tide prediction chart for a 24-hour period

Question 4

What does the rule 'Wind backs and increases, mariners take notice' indicate?

Accepted Answer

A backing wind (shifting anticlockwise) with rising speed indicates a depression is approaching with deteriorating conditions

Answer

Backing winds always indicate improving weather

Answer

Wind backing in the northern hemisphere indicates high pressure approaching

Answer

Backing and veering have the same significance

Question 5

What are the main characteristics of a warm front passage?

Accepted Answer

Gradual deterioration with lowering cloud, continuous rain, rising temperature, and backing wind followed by clearing

Answer

Sudden squalls and thunderstorms as the front passes

Answer

Very rapid wind increase with little precipitation

Answer

Clear skies with strong winds and short sharp waves

Question 6

What is 'sea fog' (advection fog) and when does it typically form in UK waters?

Accepted Answer

When warm moist air moves over a cooler sea surface, cooling the air below its dew point — common in spring/early summer

Answer

When cold arctic air meets warm sea water

Answer

Only during winter months in UK waters

Answer

Only in sheltered estuaries and harbours