Chapter 6: Global Circulations
OVERVIEW
This module starts putting together our knowledge of the atmosphere to better understand weather systems. The global circulation is examined first, and how air moves from the tropics to the poles. The concept of air masses is defined and how they move and interact. The midlatitudes, latitudes between 30o and 60o, are where air masses collide. The boundaries between these air masses create fronts. The Norwegian cyclone model is discussed. This conceptual model explains the life cycle of these fronts and the weather associated with them.
Once a learner has completed this module, they will be able to:
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List the terms used to describe the spatial scales of weather phenomena.
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Describe the three-cell model of atmospheric general circulation.
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Describe synoptic scale phenomena.
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Describe the types of air masses and explain how they form.
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Identify the types of fronts and their characteristics, such as the cloud and weather conditions associated with a front.
