Weather Practice Questions
for the Private Pilot Written Test
Weather questions on the FAA knowledge test range from reading METARs and TAFs to understanding fronts, stability, icing, and thunderstorm hazards. Try these sample questions, then review the explanation for each — the reasoning matters more than the letter you pick.
1.What is the primary composition of Earth's atmosphere by volume at sea level?
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A. 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, 1% other gases
Earth's atmosphere at sea level is composed of approximately 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and 1% other gases by volume. (PHAK Ch. 12)
2.At what altitude does the troposphere extend to on average over the continental United States?
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B. About 36,000 feet above the surface
The troposphere extends to about 36,000 feet over the continental US, which is considered mid-latitudes. This is the atmospheric layer where nearly all weather occurs. The troposphere reaches higher altitudes at the equator (around 55,000 feet) and lower at the poles (around 18,000 feet). (PHAK Ch. 12)
3.Which lapse rate indicates the temperature change for unsaturated (dry) air as it rises?
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C. 3°C per 1,000 feet
The dry adiabatic lapse rate (DALR) — the cooling of unsaturated air as it rises — is 3°C per 1,000 feet. Don't confuse it with the standard/average atmospheric lapse rate of ~2°C per 1,000 feet, which describes the ambient air rather than a rising parcel. (PHAK Ch. 12)
4.Which of the following best describes stable atmospheric conditions?
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B. Stratus clouds, poor visibility, and smooth air
Stable atmospheric conditions are characterized by stratus clouds, poor visibility, and smooth air. These features indicate limited vertical air movement, which is typical of stable air. (PHAK Ch. 12)
5.In the Northern Hemisphere, surface winds around a low-pressure system flow:
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B. Counterclockwise and inward toward the low
In the Northern Hemisphere, surface winds around a low-pressure system flow counterclockwise and inward due to the Coriolis effect. (PHAK Ch. 11)
6.Which cloud type is most likely to produce continuous, steady precipitation?
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D. Nimbostratus clouds
Nimbostratus clouds are thick, layered clouds that cover large areas and are most likely to produce continuous, steady precipitation such as prolonged rain or snow. (PHAK Ch. 12)
7.In aviation weather reports, what does the term 'ceiling' refer to?
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B. The height above ground of the lowest broken or overcast layer
In aviation weather reports, 'ceiling' refers to the height above ground level of the lowest layer of clouds reported as broken or overcast, but not thin or partial. (PHAK Ch. 12)
8.Which stage of a thunderstorm is characterized primarily by updrafts?
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C. Cumulus
The cumulus stage of a thunderstorm is characterized primarily by strong updrafts, which build the storm's vertical development. (PHAK Ch. 13)
9.In a METAR, how is visibility reported?
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C. In statute miles as 'SM' in the US
In the US, METAR visibility is reported in statute miles, indicated by 'SM' in the report. For example, '10SM' means 10 statute miles visibility. Internationally, meters or kilometers may be used instead. (AIM 7-1-28)
10.In a TAF, what does 'FM' indicate?
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B. From
'FM' in a TAF means 'from', indicating a rapid change at a specific time. (AIM 7-1-28)
11.A PIREP reporting 'UA /OV KSTL 090025 /TM 1430 /FL060 /TP C172 /SK BKN045-TOP060 /TA 03 /WV 26035KT /TB LGT' indicates:
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B. Light turbulence was observed at 6,000 feet
The PIREP code 'TB LGT' means light turbulence was encountered at the reported altitude of 6,000 feet. (AIM 7-1-20)
12.A surface analysis chart primarily provides information about:
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B. Fronts, pressure systems, and surface winds
Surface analysis charts display information about fronts, pressure systems (highs and lows), and surface winds. They do not show winds aloft, freezing levels, or cloud tops. (PHAK Ch. 13)
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