Synoptic Meteorology – Front Evolution What is the technical term for the process by which a weather front weakens and “dies out,” losing its temperature contrast and baroclinicity?

Introduction / Context:
Weather fronts are boundaries between air masses of differing temperature and humidity. Their life cycle includes formation, intensification, and decay. Correct terminology helps interpret weather maps and forecast the evolution of storms and precipitation bands.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question asks about the destruction or weakening of a front.
• We distinguish between processes that build versus those that erode frontal contrasts.
• Standard meteorological vocabulary is expected.

Concept / Approach:
Frontogenesis (note the correct spelling) refers to the formation or strengthening of a front. Frontolysis is the opposite: the process by which temperature gradients and wind shear across the boundary relax, dissipating the front. Therefore, the correct choice for “dying of fronts” is frontolysis.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Surface analyses often label dissipating fronts with weakening symbols; textbook explanations explicitly use “frontolysis” to describe such decay, confirming the term.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Fromtogenesis: Misspelled and, even if corrected to frontogenesis, it would mean the opposite (formation/strengthening).
• Both (a) and (b): Mutually exclusive processes; cannot both describe decay.
• None of the above: Incorrect; frontolysis is the precise term.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing the pair because they sound similar. Remember: “-genesis” creates; “-lysis” breaks down.

Final Answer:
frontolysis