American Meteorological Society Certification (AMS) Practice

Low pressure systems are characterized by a decrease in atmospheric pressure compared to the surrounding areas, and they play a crucial role in weather patterns. The statement that they are associated with rising warm air and stormy weather is accurate. In a low pressure system, warmer air at the surface tends to rise because it is less dense than the cooler air. As this warm air rises, it expands and cools, leading to cloud formation and potentially precipitation. This rising motion is often the catalyst for stormy weather, including rain, thunderstorms, and other severe weather phenomena. In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the nature of low pressure systems. The claim that low pressure systems bring clear, dry weather is not consistent with meteorological observations, as these systems are typically linked to cloudy conditions and precipitation. Stable and high temperatures are usually associated with high pressure systems, which create sinking air movements and generally promote clear skies. Finally, the notion that low pressure leads to cold air sinking contradicts the established behavior of these systems, where rising air plays a central role in their dynamics.