Which of the following is MOST likely to occur when a cold front intersects a package of warm air?
A)The two air masses mix, and a thunderstorm results.
B)The two air masses mix, and the formation of a tornado is possible.
C)The cold air is lifted on top of the warm air, and a thunderstorm results.
D)The warm air is lifted on top of the cold air, and a thunderstorm results.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a cold front intersects a package of warm air, the warm air is less dense than the cold air and will be lifted on top of the cold air. This lifting of warm air can lead to the formation of thunderstorms. Therefore, D is the most likely option. Tornadoes may occur in severe thunderstorms, but it is not a direct result of the interaction between a cold front and warm air. Mixing of air masses is not a typical outcome of a cold front intersecting with warm air.

Which of the Following Is MOST Likely to Occur When