Cadet Competition Written Practice Exam

What term describes rising columns of air in meteorology?

1. Winds

2. Fluids

3. Thermals

4. Currents

The correct answer is: Thermals

The term that describes rising columns of air in meteorology is thermals. Thermals occur as a result of the uneven heating of the Earth's surface by the sun. When a particular area is heated, the air above it becomes warmer than the surrounding air. Since warm air is less dense, it begins to rise. This rising air can create a vertical column known as a thermal, which is significant for various weather phenomena and is also important for activities like gliding and soaring in aviation, where pilots utilize these upward drafts for lift. Winds refer to the horizontal movement of air across the Earth’s surface and are a different concept than vertical air movement described by thermals. Fluids encompass all substances that can flow, including gases and liquids, but does not specifically refer to the meteorological phenomenon of rising air columns. Currents typically refer to the continuous, directed movement of a body of fluid, including air or water, but again, they do not specifically capture the concept of localized rising air columns as thermals do. Thus, thermals is the most accurate term fitting the description given in the question.