A warm front moves toward which type of air mass?

A warm front typically moves toward a cooler air mass. This phenomenon occurs because warm air is less dense than cool air, causing the warm air to rise over the cooler air as the two air masses interact. When a warm front approaches, it signifies that warmer air is on the move, aiming to replace the colder air that is currently present. This process often leads to cloud formation and precipitation as the warm air cools and condenses upon rising.

The characteristics of the air masses involved play a crucial role in this interaction. The cooler air mass acts as a barrier, forcing the warm air to ascend gradually, which can create extensive stratus clouds and lead to steady, prolonged precipitation. Understanding the dynamics of warm fronts helps in forecasting weather changes associated with the transition between these two air masses.