We were having a discussion while watching the weather channel. If portions of Oklahoma have temperatures from the 30's to the 50's and another portion of oklahoma had temperatures upper 70's and 80's and finally another section of Oklahoma low 60's to upper 70's. What are some types of air masses involved with the different temperature changes?

Question

We were having a discussion while watching the weather channel. If portions of Oklahoma have temperatures from the 30's to the 50's and another portion of oklahoma had temperatures upper 70's and 80's and finally another section of Oklahoma low 60's to upper 70's. What are some types of air masses involved with the different temperature changes?

Answer 1

To determine the types of air masses involved with the different temperature changes in different sections of Oklahoma, we'll need to consider the source regions of air masses and their characteristics. Air masses are large bodies of air that have relatively uniform temperature, moisture, and stability characteristics.

In the case of Oklahoma, the varying temperature ranges suggest the presence of different air masses. Here are some possible air masses that could be involved:

1. Polar air mass (P): A polar air mass is characterized by its low temperature and low moisture content. It forms over high-latitude regions and moves southward, bringing colder temperatures. The portion of Oklahoma experiencing temperatures in the 30's to 50's could be influenced by a polar air mass.

2. Maritime tropical air mass (mT): A maritime tropical air mass is warm and humid. It forms over warm oceanic areas and, when air masses move northward, it can bring warm and moist conditions. The portion of Oklahoma with temperatures in the 70's and 80's could be influenced by a maritime tropical air mass.

3. Continental tropical air mass (cT): A continental tropical air mass is hot and dry. It forms over desert regions and warm continental areas. When air masses move northward from these regions, they can bring hot and dry conditions. The portion of Oklahoma experiencing temperatures in the low 60's to upper 70's could be influenced by a continental tropical air mass.

It's important to note that weather patterns are complex and influenced by various factors. Therefore, local topography, wind patterns, and other factors can also play a role in the temperature variations observed in different areas of Oklahoma.