Question

Answer the following:
a) What is a Typhoon?
b) Explain the formation of cyclones. Name any two factors which contribute to the development of cyclones. [5 MARKS]

Answer 1

Option a: 1 Mark
Explanation: 2 Marks
Factors: 2 Mark

A cyclone is called as 'typhoon' in Philippines and Japan.

Water requires heat when it changes from liquid to vapour state. Before cloud formation, water takes up heat from the atmosphere to change into vapour. When water vapour changes back to liquid as raindrops, heat is released into the atmosphere. The heat released in the atmosphere warms the air around it. The air tends to rise and causes a drop in pressure. More air rushes in. This cycle is repeated. This chain of events ends with the formation of a low-pressure system, with very high-speed wind revolving around it. In a situation like this, a cyclone is formed.

The factors which lead to the development of cyclones are:

1) Temperature
2) Humidity