AFOQT Practice Test

Which of the following best defines weather?

1. The long-term average of atmospheric conditions

2. The condition of Earth's atmosphere at a specific time and place

3. The study of atmospheric phenomena

4. The measurement of precipitation over a period

The correct answer is: The condition of Earth's atmosphere at a specific time and place

The correct choice defines weather as "the condition of Earth's atmosphere at a specific time and place." Weather is characterized by short-term atmospheric conditions, including temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind, and visibility, that can change from moment to moment. This definition highlights the transient nature of weather, which can vary significantly even within hours or minutes. In contrast, the other definitions focus on broader concepts. The long-term average of atmospheric conditions refers more to climate, which encompasses weather patterns over extended periods. The study of atmospheric phenomena is related to meteorology but does not capture the specific, immediate conditions that define weather. Lastly, measuring precipitation over time pertains only to one aspect of weather and does not encompass the entire spectrum of atmospheric conditions. Thus, defining weather specifically as the current state of the atmosphere at a given time effectively captures its essence.