What is a defining feature of a cold front?

A defining feature of a cold front is that the colder air mass slides under the warmer air. This process occurs because cold air is denser than warm air, causing it to push under the lighter warm air. As the cold front advances, the warm air is forced to rise rapidly, which can lead to the development of clouds and precipitation. This upward movement often results in more severe weather conditions, such as thunderstorms, compared to other types of fronts. The rapid lifting of the warm air can lead to a distinct drop in temperature following the passage of the cold front, marking its significant impact on weather patterns.