Continental Air Mass
An air mass with continental characteristics. It is a secondary characteristic of an air mass classification, signified by the small “c” before the primary characteristic, which is based on source region. For example, cP is an air mass that is continental polar in nature.
Air Mass
An extensive body of air throughout which the horizontal temperature and moisture characteristics are similar.
Continent
A large land mass rising abruptly from the deep ocean floor, including marginal regions that are shallowly submerged. Continents constitute about one-third of the earth’s surface.
Polar Air Mass
An air mass that forms over a high latitude region. Continental polar air (cP) is formed over cold surface regions and is typically very stable with low moisture. Maritime polar air (mP), produced over warmer waters, is less stable with high moisture.