AF 201B Unit 13 Orientation Lesson 6 - Wx Theory

The student will become familiar with weather theory (fronts, pressure systems, fog, etc.).

The student should display an understanding of weather theory (fronts, pressure systems, fog, etc.).

Grading Items

Composition of Atmosphere
- Troposphere (SFC - 370)
- Stratosphere (370^)
- Tropopause
- Standard lapse rate
- Standard Atmosphere
Fronts and Pressure Systems
- Low/High Pressure
  - Couterclockwise - Low pressure
- Types of Fronts
  - Cold Front
  - Warm Front
  - Occluded Front
  - Stationary Front
Characteristics of Various Airmasses
- Stable Air
- Unstable Air
Characteristics of Various Frontal Systems
Formation of Fog and Clouds
- Types of Fog
  - Radiation Fog
  - Upslope Fog
  - Costal/Steam Fog
- Fog, clouds, or dew form when water vapor condenses
- Type of clouds
  - Low (below 6,500ft)
  - Mid (between 6,500 & 20,000ft)
  - High (above 20,000ft)
  - Clouds with vertical development
- Cloud Formation
  - Clouds form (typically) where the temp & dewpoint meet
  - Lapse Rate: 4.5º F for 1,000ft
Formation and Dangers of Thunderstorms
- Stages of a TS
- Safety radius & concerns
Inadvertent Encounters with Icing Conditions
Wind Shear
- Most likely during temperature inversions, frontal zone, and/or clear air turbulence