Quiz 9 Solutions

1.) Define reflectivity.

Amount of energy reflected back to the radar.

2.) How do different sizes of raindrops affect rainfall amount measurements by radar?

Rainfall estimates are difficult to measure because the size of the raindrops cannot be determined. Because of this, many small drops can look like a few large drops and this is what throws off rainfall estimates.

3.) List an advantage of phased array radars.

Any one of these would be accepted. Multiple beams used, multiple frequencies ues, controlled electronically, faster scanning than regular radar, can track multiple targets, and may potentially increase tornado warning lead times.

4.) Explain how Earth's curvature affects radar images, especially the farther you get from the radar.

A radar beam extends out from the radar in a straight line. However, as the radar beam moves farther from the radar, the Earth's surface begins to "curve away". Therefore, the radar beam begins to scan higher and higher up into the storm as the surface of Earth drops away.

5.) What does a velocity image generated by a Doppler radar show you?

A velocity image shows the magnitude of winds moving towards and away from the radar.