C Warm ocean water
Hurricanes form over warm ocean water, typically with surface temperatures of 80°F (27°C) or higher. The warm water provides energy to the storm system, acting as fuel for its development. As the warm water evaporates and forms moist air, it rises rapidly. This process creates a low-pressure area near the surface, which, along with other atmospheric conditions, leads to the formation of a hurricane.
The warm moist air continues to rise, and as it does, it cools and condenses, releasing latent heat and forming clouds. This further fuels the storm system and strengthens its circulation. As the air rises, it creates a vertical wind shear—the change in wind speed and direction with height—leading to the formation of a rotating column of air that characterizes a hurricane.
Once formed, the hurricane's power comes from the release of the large amount of latent heat stored in the water vapor. As the warm, moist air condenses and forms clouds, this heat is released into the storm system. The heat release provides the energy necessary for the hurricane to intensify and sustain its strength.
Other factors that contribute to the power of hurricanes include low vertical wind shear, high humidity, and a lack of disruptive factors like dry air or strong upper-level winds. These conditions allow the storm to organize and maintain its strength, potentially leading to its development into a powerful hurricane.
How do hurricanes form and what makes them powerful?
A Earth's magnetic field
B High atmospheric pressure
C Warm ocean water
1 answer
1 answer