Science Unit 2 Lesson 2 Quiz
Rate the following from 1 to 3, with 1 being the most accurate and 3 being the least. (Tomorrow, it will be snowy in Fargo; In seven days, it will be sunny in Denver; In four days, it will be rainy in Knoxville)
1, 3, 2
Explain your reasoning on how weather predictions are made. Summarize evidence to support your claim.
Forecasters use maps, charts, tables, mathematical models, and weather factors. They also collect past and current data like wind speed, humidity, and cloud coverage for the models. They are not 100% because weather is super complex and accuracy decreases with increasing time into the future.
If you saw a weather map with precipitation in the north west, what travel advice would you give to someone planning to visit the beach in Oregon tomorrow?
I would tell them to drive safely, dress appropriately, and bring umbrellas.
Why are mathematical models so valuable to scientists who study complex phenomena like weather?
They are made up of equations that represent complex relationships in nature. These models can be used to make predictions and test ideas.
Weather forecast models have advantages and drawbacks. For example, one model may predict rain in a region with more accuracy than another model. Explain how the accuracy of a weather forecast model is tested.
They are tested by comparing their predictions to what actually happens with weather. Over time one may notice patterns and be able to adjust the equations used in the model to make more accurate predictions.
Why do forecast models have limitations? Why are they still useful to people?
They have limitations because it is only a prediction, sometimes they must make improvements, and weather is constantly changing. They are still useful because they tell what to expect.
What is a weather forecast?
a prediction about the state of the atmosphere at a given place and time
Explain how weather predictions are made.
by collecting data and making a mathematical model but they are not 100% accurate
What are some factors that influence rain patterns?
latitude, prevailing winds, ocean currents, or location
What do all models have?
limitations
If you saw a weather map with precipitation in the north west, how accurate would you think it was? Why?(doesn't show what kind but does show how much)
pretty accurate because it lets you know what to expect
Someone found out that it rains more in Houston than in surrounding areas. What do you think will happen to rainfall amounts (in the city) if Houston grows larger?
they will increase
Imagine a weather chart that shows past and current temperature. (Monday: 5F. Tuesday: 0F. Wednesday: 1F. Thursday: -2F) Predict the temperature for Friday. What did you base your prediction on? Do you think your prediction would be within one degree of the actual temperature? Three? Five?
(sample) Since it is overall getting colder, I think it will be about -4F on Friday. I think my prediction would be within five degrees because the temperature doesn't range that much.
