Cloud Bases

06/06/25

“How do we describe the base of a cloud?”

Clouds come in all shapes and sizes. But how do we describe their lowest visible parts? Well, just like the beginning of any structure is called a “base”, the lowest visible region of a cloud is termed a Cloud Base. Cloud bases are measured as the distance from mean sea level or the Earth’s surface.

Perched Aquifers

06/05/25

“How do we classify aquifers located above regional aquifer water tables?”

The water table above a regional aquifer is normally below any other groundwater bodies. However, sometimes there are small aquitards located above. This leads to Perched Aquifers above regional aquifers. Perched aquifers can be the source of springs.

Aquitards

06/04/25

“What do we call ground layers that slow water discharge between aquifers?”

Aquifers store water underground. Sometimes, a portion of the underground layer will limit the water discharge to and/or from an aquifer. These Aquitards are made of low-permeability materials that can drastically reshape subterranean water systems.

Image credit: https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/

Nimbostratus Clouds

06/03/25

“How do we classify dark and moderately rainy clouds?”

Clouds come in all shapes and sizes. During warm fronts, moisture may rise into the atmosphere and create dark clouds. These Nimbostratus Clouds produce constant streams of rain with (usually) no lightning or thunder. Nimbostratus clouds typically form around 2 – 4 kilometers in the middle level of the troposphere.

Image credit: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/

Westerlies Seasonal Variation

06/01/25

“How do the westerlies have seasonal variation?”

The westerlies are a vital part of global air circulation. Temperature differences between the poles and tropics are one of the causes of these winds. During the winter, the temperature differences between these two regions are greater, leading to stronger westerlies winds. This is why Westerlies Seasonal Variation occurs. Storms in the westerlies regions are stronger during the wintertime as a consequence.

Atmospheric Subsidence

05/31/25

“What happens to air as it sinks in the atmosphere?”

Air moves around in the atmosphere. When it sinks, it warms up, compresses, and increases its water vapor-holding capacity. This phenomenon, known as Atmospheric Subsidence, results in warmer weather, clearer skies, and lower relative humidity in an area.

Ocean Gyres

05/30/2026

“How do currents complete circulation in the ocean?”

Currents move water in the ocean. Warm currents dominate the eastern borders of continents, and cold currents dominate the western borders. Taken together, these movements form circular Ocean Gyres that move water between continents. 

Cold Ocean Currents

05/29/25

“Why do some ocean currents carry cold water?”

Ocean currents carry water from all over the world. The sun’s position near the poles tends to bring cold water in these currents. These Cold Ocean Currents play a decisive role in the climate of nearby landmasses. If a cold ocean current is close to a landmass, it will cool the land and add moisture to the atmosphere. Because of global water circulation, cold ocean currents are more likely to form on the western side of continents than on the eastern side. Examples of Cold Ocean Currents include the California Current and the Benguela Current.