Drone Pilot Practice Exam

An air mass moving inland from the coast during winter usually results in what condition?

1. Clear skies

2. Heavy snowfall

3. Fog

4. Warm temperatures

The correct answer is: Fog

When an air mass moves inland from the coast during winter, it typically brings moisture-laden air that can lead to the formation of fog. As this humid air interacts with the colder land surface, particularly in winter when temperatures are lower, condensation occurs. This results in reduced visibility and the development of foggy conditions. Additionally, if the temperature drops significantly, this moist air can lead to cloud formation and potentially precipitation in the form of rain or snow, but the formation of fog is a particularly notable effect immediately following the arrival of a moist air mass. In contrast, clear skies are less common in this scenario due to the moisture present in the air, and while heavy snowfall can occur later if the air mass is cold enough and carries enough moisture, it is not the immediate effect of an air mass moving inland. Warm temperatures typically do not result from winter air masses moving in from the ocean, as they usually bear the characteristics of the colder season.