Atmospheric Circulation and Global Wind Patterns
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Atmospheric Circulation and Global Wind Patterns

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary driver of global wind circulation?

  • The temperature difference between the equator and the poles (correct)
  • The gravitational pull of the Moon
  • The rotation of the Earth
  • The movement of tectonic plates

    • In which atmospheric circulation cell does warm air rise and cool air sink?

  • Polar Cell
  • Ferrel Cell
  • Hadley Cell (correct)
  • Jet Stream

    • What is the direction of the trade winds in the Northern Hemisphere?

  • Southwest
  • Northwest
  • Northeast (correct)
  • Southeast

    • Why are the westerlies stronger in the Southern Hemisphere?

    <p>Due to the fewer landmasses</p> Signup and view all the answers

    At what altitude is the jet stream located?

    <p>20,000-50,000 ft</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the jet stream in shaping global weather patterns?

    <p>It enhances the movement of high and low-pressure systems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Coriolis effect causes winds to curve in the opposite direction in the Southern Hemisphere as compared to the Northern Hemisphere.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The temperature gradient between the equator and poles is the primary driver of global wind circulation.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The jet stream is a slow-moving band of air that circles the Earth.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The polar region has the highest temperatures due to the high levels of humidity.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Ocean currents have a negligible impact on global temperature distribution.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The trade winds blow from low pressure near the equator towards high pressure near the poles.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Global Temperature Gradients

    • Temperature decreases with latitude and altitude
    • Equator-to-pole temperature gradient: warmest at equator, coolest at poles
    • Temperature difference drives global wind circulation

    Atmospheric Circulation Cells

    • Three main circulation cells in each hemisphere:
      1. Hadley Cell: equatorial region, warm air rises, cool air sinks
      2. Ferrel Cell: mid-latitudes, cool air rises, warm air sinks
      3. Polar Cell: polar region, cold air sinks, warm air rises
    • Cells interact, creating wind patterns and global circulation

    Trade Winds

    • Northeast trade winds (Northern Hemisphere) and southeast trade winds (Southern Hemisphere)
    • Blow from high pressure near 30°N/S to low pressure near equator
    • Drive ocean currents, influence regional climate

    Westerlies

    • Prevailing winds in mid-latitudes, blowing from west to east
    • Stronger in Southern Hemisphere due to fewer landmasses
    • Influence weather patterns, ocean currents, and global climate

    Jet Stream

    • Fast-moving band of air in upper atmosphere (20,000-50,000 ft)
    • Forms at boundary between troposphere and stratosphere
    • Plays key role in shaping global weather patterns and storm tracks
    • Can influence regional climate, agriculture, and aviation

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    Description

    Learn about the global temperature gradients, atmospheric circulation cells, trade winds, westerlies, and jet stream. Understand how these factors interact to shape global wind circulation and weather patterns.

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