Final answer:
Less than 30 percent of supercells with a clear mesocyclone signature on radar produce tornadoes, as other specific atmospheric conditions are also needed for tornado formation. False
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question pertains to the relationship between supercells with a clear mesocyclone signature on radar and their likelihood of producing a tornado. Current evidence indicates that even though supercells exhibit a clear mesocyclone, which is a deep rotating updraft, less than 30 percent of such supercells actually produce tornadoes. This is attributed to the fact that several other atmospheric conditions must be met for tornado genesis, and not all supercells encounter these necessary conditions.
The statement that less than 30 percent of supercells with a clear mesocyclone signature on radar produce a tornado is false. While not all supercells produce tornadoes, the actual percentage is higher than 30 percent. A supercell is a type of thunderstorm that has a rotating updraft, called a mesocyclone, which can lead to tornado formation.