WEATHER INSTRUMENTS — Interpret the reading. Question: If the barometer reading keeps going down, what is it generally an indication of?

Introduction / Context:
A barometer measures atmospheric pressure. Interpreting rising and falling pressure helps forecast short-term weather. This question tests whether you can connect a persistent pressure drop to likely weather outcomes.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• “Going down” means a sustained fall from the local mean pressure.
• Low pressure systems are associated with clouds, winds, and precipitation.
• We aim for the most general inference rather than a specific event in a specific climate.

Concept / Approach:
Falling barometric pressure indicates the approach or strengthening of a low-pressure area. Low pressure promotes air rising, cooling, and cloud formation, often leading to unsettled conditions such as storms. While rain is common, “storm” captures the broader, more definitive sign of significant weather.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Note relationship: pressure ↓ → low-pressure system.Low pressure → convergence and uplift of moist air.Uplift → condensation → clouds/precipitation → windy or stormy weather.Therefore, a falling barometer points to stormy conditions.

Verification / Alternative check:
Marine and aviation weather briefings flag rapidly falling pressure as a warning for gales or storms. Gradual minor drops may precede rainfall; a sharp drop often precedes severe weather.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
A) Snow is a type of precipitation; pressure alone does not specify snowfall.C) Intense heat aligns with high pressure and clear skies in many regions.D) Rainfall can occur, but “storm” is the broader, more diagnostic outcome of a notable pressure fall.E) Clear skies correlate with rising or high steady pressure.

Common Pitfalls:
Thinking “rain” whenever pressure falls. The better general inference is deteriorating or stormy weather, which may include rain, winds, and thunderstorms.

Final Answer:
storm