Ch. 5 Review

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The Coriolis effect is the deflection of moving objects, such as air and water, caused by the rotation of the Earth. In the Northern Hemisphere, it causes winds to deflect clockwise, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it deflects counterclockwise.

Front

Where do hurricanes typically form?

Back

Hurricanes typically form near the Equator, where warm ocean waters provide the necessary heat and moisture.

Front

What direction do winds flow?

Back

Winds flow from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure.

Front

What type of energy transfer occurs in convection currents?

Back

Convection currents occur when thermal (heat) energy transfers between a fluid, causing the fluid to move.

Front

What is created when air rises above the Earth's surface?

Back

When air rises above the Earth's surface, it creates a low pressure area.

Front

Define high pressure area.

Back

A high pressure area is a region where the atmospheric pressure is higher than that of surrounding areas, often associated with clear skies and calm weather.

Front

Define low pressure area.

Back

A low pressure area is a region where the atmospheric pressure is lower than that of surrounding areas, often associated with cloudy skies and precipitation.

Front

What is the role of thermal energy in weather patterns?

Back

Thermal energy drives convection currents, which are essential for the formation of weather patterns, including storms and wind.

Front

Explain the relationship between pressure and wind direction.

Back

Wind direction is influenced by pressure differences; winds move from high pressure to low pressure, creating airflow patterns.

Front

What is the significance of the Equator in weather phenomena?

Back

The Equator is significant in weather phenomena because it is where warm air rises, leading to the formation of tropical storms and hurricanes.