STORMS & FRONTS — Conditions favorable for development Where do storms or frontal systems commonly develop?

Introduction / Context:
Storms form when the atmosphere becomes unstable and rising motion is encouraged. Frontal systems in particular are linked to baroclinic zones, while convective storms thrive where uplift and moisture coincide.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Rising air favors cloud and precipitation development.
• Low pressure implies convergence and ascent.
• Storms of various types occur across the equator (convective) and mid-latitudes (frontal).

Concept / Approach:
Frontal mid-latitude cyclones form along temperature gradients, with surface low pressure and ascending air along fronts. Deep convective storms occur in the tropics (including equatorial regions) due to strong surface heating and moisture. Thus, multiple settings listed are valid for “storms,” while “frontal systems” are especially typical of mid-latitudes. Because the stem mentions “storms or frontal systems,” the inclusive choice is correct.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Note that ascent and low pressure are general storm ingredients.Recognize convective storms near the equator and frontal storms in mid-latitudes.The broad condition set matches all statements → choose “All of the above.”

Verification / Alternative check:
Climatological storm tracks show mid-latitude cyclone belts; tropical convection and ITCZ support frequent equatorial storms.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Any single option alone omits other valid storm environments.“Only over cold oceans” is unnecessarily restrictive and false.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating “fronts” with all storms; many storms are non-frontal (tropical convection, cyclones).

Final Answer:
All of the above