1.
A conventional weather map is called a synoptic chart. This chart is made by compiling hundreds of weather observations taken from all around Australia. A synoptic chart shows the main elements of the weather system at a particular time, such as highs, lows, and cold fronts.The air pressure readings are taken at ground level, and lines are drawn in to connect areas of the same air pressure.
Definitions:
high is a short way of describing a high pressure cell where the air pressure increases towards the centre
low is a short way of describing a low pressure cell where the air pressure decreases towards the centre
cold front is the boundary where a mass of cold air is replacing warm air, which causes a sharp change in temperature (and usually brings rain)
2.
Use these words to answer questions 4-11
anticlockwise
cells
H
isobars
measure
L
rotation
wind
pressure
3.
There are wind symbols (or "Wind Arrows") on the map. The direction that the wind blows is shown by the way the arrow is pointing, and the wind speed is shown by how many 'tails' are on the arrow. Use the legend to find out what wind speed is shown near Townsville (on the NE coast of Australia).
Correct Answer
A. 24-32 km/hr
Explanation
The wind symbols on the map indicate both the direction and speed of the wind. In this case, the wind speed near Townsville is shown to be between 24-32 km/hr.
4.
What is the wind speed shown in Port Headland?
Correct Answer
B. 33-41 km/hr
Explanation
The wind speed shown in Port Headland is between 33-41 km/hr.
5.
The lines on the weather map are called _____
Correct Answer
isobars
Explanation
Isobars are lines on a weather map that connect points of equal atmospheric pressure. These lines help meteorologists analyze and predict weather patterns by identifying areas of high and low pressure. By observing the spacing and shape of isobars, scientists can determine the strength and movement of weather systems.
6.
These join points of equal air ___
Correct Answer
pressure
Explanation
The question is asking for a word that completes the phrase "join points of equal air __." The word "pressure" fits logically in the blank, as join points of equal air pressure refer to areas where the air pressure is the same.
7.
On the map, the isobars circle high or low pressure ____
Correct Answer
cells
Explanation
The isobars on a map circle high or low pressure cells. Isobars are lines on a weather map that connect areas of equal atmospheric pressure. High pressure cells are areas where the atmospheric pressure is higher than the surrounding areas, while low pressure cells are areas where the atmospheric pressure is lower. The isobars form closed circles around these high or low pressure cells, indicating the extent and shape of these pressure systems on the map.
8.
They are often marked on the map with ___ for high ...
Correct Answer
H
Explanation
The letter "H" is often used to mark locations on a map that have high elevation. This is a common convention in cartography, where different symbols and letters are used to represent various features on a map. In this case, the letter "H" is likely used to indicate mountainous or hilly areas, allowing map readers to easily identify areas with high elevation.
9.
The unit used to ____ air pressure is called a Hectopascal (hPa)
Correct Answer
measure
Explanation
The unit used to measure air pressure is called a Hectopascal (hPa). This unit is commonly used in meteorology and is equivalent to one millibar. It is a convenient unit for measuring atmospheric pressure as it allows for precise measurements and easy conversion between different pressure units.
10.
The Earth's ___ causes air to flow clockwise around lows ...
Correct Answer
rotation
Explanation
The Earth's rotation causes air to flow clockwise around lows. This is because as the Earth rotates, the Coriolis effect comes into play. The Coriolis effect is a result of the rotation of the Earth and causes moving air or water to be deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere. As a result, air around lows, which are areas of low pressure, is deflected and flows in a clockwise direction. This phenomenon is commonly observed in weather systems and is an important factor in determining the direction of air movement.
11.
The general movement of air (or ____) is from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure
Correct Answer
wind
Explanation
The general movement of air is from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure. This movement is known as wind. Air naturally flows from areas where the air pressure is higher to areas where the air pressure is lower, creating wind currents. This movement occurs due to the differences in air density caused by variations in temperature and atmospheric conditions. Wind plays a crucial role in shaping weather patterns and distributing heat and moisture across the Earth's surface.
12.
The symbol used to depict a cold front is
Correct Answer
B. Line with triangles
Explanation
A cold front is represented by a line with triangles because it indicates the boundary between a cold air mass and a warmer air mass. The triangles point in the direction that the cold air is moving, which is typically towards the warmer air. This symbol helps meteorologists and weather forecasters identify and track the movement of cold fronts, which often bring changes in weather conditions such as rain, thunderstorms, and cooler temperatures.
13.
If you were in Adelaide on this day, what would be the most sensible outfit to wear?
Correct Answer
B. Umbrella/raincoat & hat
Explanation
The most sensible outfit to wear in Adelaide on this day would be an umbrella/raincoat and a hat. This suggests that the weather in Adelaide is likely to be rainy or overcast, hence the need for protection from rain with an umbrella or raincoat. Additionally, wearing a hat can provide extra protection from the rain and keep the head dry.
14.
If you were in Perth on this day, what would be the most sensible outfit to wear?
Correct Answer
A. Sunscreen, hat & shorts
Explanation
The most sensible outfit to wear in Perth on this day would be sunscreen, a hat, and shorts because Perth is known for its warm and sunny weather. Wearing sunscreen will protect the skin from harmful UV rays, while a hat will provide shade and protect the face and head from the sun. Shorts will keep the legs cool and comfortable in the warm weather.
15.
What is the air pressure shown around Darwin?
Correct Answer
D. 1012 hPa
Explanation
The air pressure shown around Darwin is 1012 hPa.
16.
... and ___ for low
Correct Answer
L
17.
and ___ around highs in the southern hemisphere.
Correct Answer
anticlockwise
Explanation
In the southern hemisphere, weather systems such as high-pressure systems rotate in an anticlockwise direction. This means that the air circulates in a counterclockwise motion around the center of the high-pressure system. This is due to the Coriolis effect, which is caused by the rotation of the Earth. As a result, winds around highs in the southern hemisphere move in an anticlockwise direction.
18.
Isobars close together mean the air pressure is changing more rapidly than where they are far apart. Therefore, isobars close together indicate
Correct Answer
A. More wind
Explanation
Isobars are lines on a weather map that connect areas with the same atmospheric pressure. When isobars are close together, it indicates a steep pressure gradient, meaning there is a rapid change in air pressure over a short distance. This steep pressure gradient creates strong pressure gradients, which in turn result in stronger winds. Therefore, isobars close together indicate more wind.