Question

Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) is a tool scientists use to forecast weather. Which statements describe GPM? Select three options.

It is a computer model used to predict weather.
It is a satellite that collects data about rain and snow.
Its orbit covers 90 percent of Earth’s surface.
Its orbit covers 70 percent of Earth’s surface.
The sensors measure visible light.
The sensors measure microwaves.

Answer 1

Correct choices:
- It is a satellite that collects data about rain and snow.
- Its orbit covers 90 percent of Earth’s surface.
- The sensors measure microwaves.

Brief explanation: The GPM (Global Precipitation Measurement) Core Observatory is a satellite (with a constellation) that measures precipitation (rain and snow) using microwave instruments (e.g., the GPM Microwave Imager and Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar). Its 65°-inclination orbit provides coverage roughly between 65°N and 65°S — about 90% of the planet’s surface. It is not a computer model and does not rely on visible-light sensors for its precipitation measurements.