Atmospheric Currents

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The Coriolis effect is the apparent deflection of moving objects (like air and water) caused by the rotation of the Earth. It causes winds to curve to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere.

Front

What are convection currents?

Back

Convection currents are movements of air or water that occur due to the uneven heating of the Earth's surface. Hot air rises, while cooler air sinks, creating a cycle that helps distribute heat.

Front

How do global winds form?

Back

Global winds are formed due to the uneven heating of the Earth's surface and the rotation of the Earth, which causes air to move from high-pressure areas to low-pressure areas.

Front

What is the role of convection in the atmosphere?

Back

Convection in the atmosphere helps distribute heat, leading to weather patterns and temperature changes.

Front

What direction do jet streams typically move in the United States?

Back

Jet streams in the United States typically move from west to east.

Front

What causes wind to form?

Back

Wind is formed by convection currents resulting from uneven heating of the Earth's surface.

Front

What is the relationship between temperature and air pressure?

Back

As temperature increases, air pressure decreases because warm air is less dense than cool air.

Front

What is the significance of the equator in atmospheric currents?

Back

The equator receives more direct sunlight, leading to higher temperatures and creating low-pressure areas that influence global wind patterns.

Front

What are trade winds?

Back

Trade winds are steady winds that flow from east to west in the tropics, caused by the Coriolis effect and the uneven heating of the Earth.

Front

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Back

Weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions, while climate refers to the long-term average of weather patterns in a specific area.