Private Pilot Private Exam

Which discontinuity is most easily recognized across a front?

1. Change in humidity

2. Change in temperature

3. Change in precipitation

4. Change in wind speed

The correct answer is: Change in temperature

The discontinuity that is most easily recognized across a front is a change in temperature. This is because fronts are typically associated with significant shifts in temperature due to the contrasting air masses that converge. When a cold front moves into an area, for instance, it can rapidly decrease the temperature as the cold air displaces the warmer air. Conversely, a warm front will elevate the temperature as warmer air moves in over cooler air. Temperature changes are often dramatic and can be felt immediately, making it one of the most evident indicators of a frontal boundary. Pilots and meteorologists closely monitor these shifts as they are critical for understanding current weather conditions and predicting turbulence or other changes in weather patterns. While changes in humidity, precipitation, and wind speed are also characteristic of frontal boundaries, they may not be as immediately apparent or pronounced as changes in temperature. For instance, humidity might change gradually or might not show a distinct boundary as clearly as temperature. Precipitation can vary depending on other factors, and wind speed can change in a less noticeable manner. Therefore, temperature changes stand out more distinctly when crossing a front, which is why they are recognized as the most immediate discontinuity.