Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
AIR MASSES
AND CYCLONIC
WEATHER SYSTEMS
C H A P T E R E I G H T
Chapter 7 focused on the concept of atmospheric humidity and included a discussion of orographic and
convectional processes, which are two ways that uplift of air can result in precipitation. These processes involve
air parcels contained within a spatially defined area, such as along a mountain range or over a relatively warm
surface. The discussion in this chapter broadens geographically to large air masses and complex atmospheric
systems that influence weather on regional and subcontinental scales. It does so by focusing on the large tropical
and midlatitude cyclonic weather systems that frequently spawn the newsmaking thunderstorms, tornadoes, and
hurricanes you hear about, or even experience yourself. As a result, most students find this to be an especially fun
chapter to read.
