Natural Science Puzzler

During the winter, it is common for strong "low level" or "ground" winds of cold air to blow into the Rocky Mountains from the west. The air is forced upward and over the mountains. It comes back down the mountains on the east side. In Calgary, Alberta (site of the 1988 Winter Olympics) these winds can become what are called Chinook winds. But a special set of circumstances are required.

If there is a strong upper level wind (at altitudes above the mountain tops), the low level air being forced upward runs into the upper level. As a result it gets compressed as it passes over the mountain tops. Calgary gets this compressed air in the form of Chinook winds. Do you think the Chinook winds are warmer, colder or the same as the original air? Explain your reasoning. (There is a section in Chapter 7 of your text that will help you with this puzzle!)

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