E1.3 Global Winds and Ocean Currents

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What are global winds?

Back

Global winds are large-scale wind patterns that occur around the Earth, driven by the uneven heating of the Earth's surface by the sun.

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What causes ocean currents?

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Ocean currents are caused by wind, the Earth's rotation, and differences in water temperature and salinity.

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Where do hurricanes typically form?

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Hurricanes typically form in the ocean near warm areas.

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What is the Jet Stream?

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The Jet Stream is a fast-flowing air current found in the upper atmosphere that influences weather patterns.

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What are prevailing westerlies?

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Prevailing westerlies are winds that blow from the west to the east in the mid-latitudes of the Earth.

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How do ocean currents affect climate?

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Ocean currents help regulate climate by distributing heat around the planet, influencing weather patterns.

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What happens to hurricanes when they hit land?

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Hurricanes die out soon after hitting land because warm water no longer feeds them.

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What is the role of the trade winds?

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Trade winds are steady winds that blow from east to west in the tropics, helping to drive ocean currents.

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How do air masses move across the United States?

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Air masses move across the United States primarily due to the prevailing westerlies, which may be deflected by the Jet Stream.

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What is the Coriolis effect?

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The Coriolis effect is the deflection of moving objects, such as winds and currents, caused by the rotation of the Earth.