Which type of air mass is typically described as 'cold and dry'?

The designation of 'cold and dry' accurately describes a Continental Polar air mass, which originates over land in high-latitude regions. This type of air mass is typically formed in cold areas, such as Canada, where the surface is cooled significantly, resulting in lower temperatures. Additionally, because it forms over land, it lacks the moisture found in air masses that originate over oceans. This characteristic makes the Continental Polar air mass both cold and dry.

In contrast, the other types of air masses exhibit different characteristics. Continental Tropical air masses are hot and dry because they originate over warm land areas in lower latitudes. Maritime Polar air masses, on the other hand, are cold and moist, formed over cool ocean waters in high-latitude areas. Lastly, Maritime Tropical air masses are warm and humid, resulting from their formation over warm, tropical ocean waters.

Thus, the definition and properties of the Continental Polar air mass correctly align with being categorized as 'cold and dry.'