How does maritime polar air compare to continental polar air?

Maritime polar air is characterized by being colder and moister compared to continental polar air. This distinction arises from the sources of each air mass. Maritime polar air typically originates over large bodies of water, such as oceans, where it collects moisture through evaporation. As a result, when this air mass moves over land, it maintains higher humidity levels and lower temperatures.

In contrast, continental polar air forms over landmasses, where it does not gain moisture from bodies of water. This air mass is generally colder due to originating from colder regions but is also drier because of the lack of water vapor. Therefore, maritime polar air, by virtue of its oceanic influence, is more humid and frigid, leading to increased cloudiness and precipitation when it interacts with land or when it rises over warmer air masses.

Understanding these differences can help in predicting weather patterns, as maritime polar air often leads to overcast skies and precipitation, while continental polar air can result in clear, cold conditions due to its dryness.