Which of the following factors help in the formation of fog over the s...
Formation of Fog over the Sea
Fog is a weather phenomenon characterized by the presence of low-lying clouds that reduce visibility near the Earth's surface. It occurs when the air near the surface cools and reaches its dew point, causing water vapor to condense into tiny water droplets or ice crystals. Fog over the sea is commonly known as sea fog and is influenced by specific factors related to the oceanic environment.
Tropical Winds Passing over Cooler Waters
When warm, moist air from tropical regions passes over cooler waters, a significant temperature difference is created between the air and the water surface. This temperature difference can lead to the formation of fog. As the warm air comes into contact with the cooler water, it rapidly cools down, causing the water vapor in the air to condense into fog droplets. This process is known as advection fog.
The presence of cooler waters provides the necessary temperature gradient for the warm air to cool and reach its dew point. The temperature difference between the air and the water surface is critical in determining the extent and persistence of sea fog formation.
Presence of Condensation Nuclei in the Form of Ocean Salt
Condensation nuclei are tiny particles suspended in the air that provide a surface for water vapor to condense onto. In the case of fog formation over the sea, the presence of condensation nuclei in the form of ocean salt is crucial. The salt particles act as nuclei for water vapor to condense around, forming fog droplets.
Ocean salt is present in the form of sea spray, which is generated by breaking waves. When waves crash against the shore or collide with each other, they release tiny water droplets into the air, which contain dissolved salts. These salt particles serve as condensation nuclei, enabling the formation of sea fog.
Conclusion
Both the factors mentioned, i.e., tropical winds passing over cooler waters and the presence of condensation nuclei in the form of ocean salt, contribute to the formation of fog over the sea. The temperature difference created by the interaction of warm air with cooler waters and the availability of condensation nuclei play essential roles in the formation and persistence of sea fog.
Which of the following factors help in the formation of fog over the s...
Statement 1: When the wind blows moist air over a cool surface the air will cool and advection fog will form. Advection fog is very common at sea when tropical winds pass over cooler waters and on land when a warm front passes over heavy snow. Statement 2: Sea fog forms when the condensation nuclei are salt. Salt is, of course, very common near the ocean where it is kicked up into the atmosphere by the breaking waves. Salt is a unique condensation nucleus in that it will allow fog to form when the humidity is as low as 70%.