AIR MASS Meaning and
Definition
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An air mass refers to a large body of air that shares similar temperature and humidity characteristics over a significant geographic area. It is typically characterized by its stability, humidity, and temperature, which are determined by the air mass's source region. The source region refers to the location from where the air mass originates, such as the polar regions, tropical regions, or over the ocean.
Air masses can cover vast regions, extending over continents, and can influence weather patterns and conditions when they move from one area to another. The characteristics of an air mass remain relatively consistent as it moves, affecting the weather conditions in the regions it traverses. This can lead to periods of stable weather or bring about changes as the air mass interacts with other air masses or weather systems.
The classification of air masses is based on their source regions and characteristics. For example, a maritime polar air mass originates from over the ocean and is typically moist and cold, while a continental tropical air mass originates from tropical regions and is usually hot and dry. The interaction of different air masses can lead to the formation of weather fronts, where areas of different air masses converge, resulting in the potential for storms or changes in weather conditions.
Air masses play a crucial role in meteorology, influencing weather patterns and affecting regional climates. Studying the characteristics and movement of air masses assists in weather prediction and understanding atmospheric phenomena.
Common Misspellings for AIR MASS
- airmass
- zir mass
- sir mass
- qir mass
- aur mass
- ajr mass
- akr mass
- aor mass
- a9r mass
- a8r mass
- aie mass
- aid mass
- aif mass
- ait mass
- ai5 mass
- ai4 mass
- air nass
- air kass
Etymology of AIR MASS
The term "air mass" is composed of two words: "air" and "mass".
1. "Air" originated from the Middle English word "ayere", which came from the Old French word "air", meaning "atmosphere". This Old French word can be traced back to the Latin word "āēr", meaning "air" or "atmosphere".
2. "Mass" originated from the Middle English word "masse", which came from the Old English word "mæsse", meaning "a lump" or "a heap". This Old English word can be traced back to the Latin word "massa", meaning "lump" or "mass".
When combined, "air mass" refers to a large body of air with relatively uniform characteristics, such as temperature, humidity, and stability, covering a substantial area of the Earth's surface.
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