Air mass x is a cold air mass. Air mass y is a warm air mass. When the air masses meet, winter storms may be produced. Which of the following most likely contributes to the formation of these storms?

Question

Cold air mass x moves over warm air mass y and evaporation occurs.
Warm air mass y moves over cold air mass x and Condensation occurs.
Cold air mass x mixes with warm air mass y and the overall temperature increases.
Warm air mass y mixes with cold mass x and the overall temperature decreases

Answer 1

The most likely statement that contributes to the formation of winter storms is:

Warm air mass y moves over cold air mass x and condensation occurs.

When warm, moist air (air mass y) rises over a cold air mass (air mass x), it cools down as it rises. This cooling can lead to condensation of water vapor in the warm air, forming clouds and potentially leading to precipitation, which is characteristic of winter storms.