Science Study Guide Lesson 2 (study hard)

Short range weather forecast make predictions for how many days into the future?

0 to 3 days.

Rate the following predictions from 1 to 3 with 1 being the most accurate and 3 being the least accurate. Tomorrow, it will be snowy in Fargo. In 7 days, it will be sunny in Denver. In 4 days, it will be raining in Knoxville.

1 tomorrow it will be snowy in Fargo. ❄❄ 2 in four days it will be rainy in Knoxville 3 in 7 days it will be sunny in Denver.

What does making a weather prediction include?

Wind speed air pressure humidity cloud cover precipitation and temperature

Currently, it is snowing in (Fargo/ Knoxville).It is likely to rain in (Denver/Knoxville) tomorrow because a (cold/warm) front is moving toward that area.

1. Fargo 2. Knoxville 3 cold

The rabbit population would (decrease/increase) if the supply of grass became limited. This would happen because grass is a food source for rabbits. If the population of rabbits decreased, the population of hawks would likely (decrease/increase).

1. decrease 2. decrease

All models have (limitations/graphs). By drawing a straight trend line on this graph we are showing the rate of growth is the (same/changing). If the rate of growth changes as the plant ages the line (would/ would not) be straight and this model would not make a reliable prediction.

1. limitations 2. same 3. would not

Medium range weather forecast make predictions for how many days into the future?

3 to 7 days.

What is a mathematical model?

A model that uses equations to represent the way a system or a process works.

What is a weather forecast?

A prediction about the state of the atmosphere at a given place and time.

Meteorologist and forecasters analyze weather forecast model results before they do what?

Before they share their results with the public.

One small change in a factor such as wind direction or ocean circulation can impact other what?

Different weather conditions.

It is possible for scientists to make models because why?

Events in nature often follow predictable patterns.

Why are weather models improved?

In order to make predictions further into the future.

Why are many predictions given as a chance or percentage for a general area?

It is hard to predict exactly what will happen in an exact location.

Weather forecast models have advantages and drawbacks. For example, 1 model May predict rain in a region with more accuracy than the other model. Explain how the accuracy of a weather forecast model is tested.

Predictions are compared with what actually happens. They keep testing to see if the accuracy of the predictions are mostly within range, the forecast is reliable.

In general what forecast are more accurate than forecasts made for longer periods of time?

Short range forecast.

Why are forecast models very complex?

So many factors influence weather.

Models are important scientific tools, but why are they limited?

They are simplified versions of the systems they represent.

What are models?

They are tools that help scientists answer questions. Models are used in science to represent things that are large, small, dangerous, or complex.

How might a weather forecaster predict future weather conditions? Describe any data or tools they might use and explain whether you think their prediction is accurate. ⛅☁🌂🌀⚡💧☔❄🌈☀☀☀☀☀☀☀☀

They might use Doppler Radar and computer maps. They will look at maps to see if precipitation is likely and to see the temperatures for the week. I think their prediction is accurate because they look at maps, computers, and weather patterns.

How does a forecaster know that stormy weather is coming?

They use weather maps, weather patterns, and fronts, and collected data. They also use mathematical models and equations. Most forecasts are not 100% accurate, but for short-term forecasts, they are more accurate.

Summarize the evidence you have gathered to support your claim and explain your reasoning.

Weather forecasters use weather maps, weather patterns, temperature, and fronts to predict weather. I think her forecast is accurate because she researched before she made her prediction.

Why are mathematical models so valuable to scientists study complex phenomena like weather?

Weather is always changing. If a scientist misses a day of recording weather, it will be harder to predict weather for the next day.

Long range weather forecast or outlooks can range from how many days into the future?

Weeks to months.

What things do you need to do to make a weather forecast?

You have to consider past and current weather conditions, current locations and movements of air masses, fronts, and high and low pressure systems

Weather forecasts not only help people plan their day, but what else do they do?

provide warnings about severe weather such as blizzards and hurricanes

What predictions can a weather forecast make?

temperature, wind, precipitation, cloud cover, and humidity