U3M3L2: Atmospheric and Oceanic Circulation

Front

What is a sea breeze?

Back

A sea breeze is a cool wind that blows from the ocean towards the land during the day, caused by the temperature difference between the land and the water.

Front

What are prevailing westerlies?

Back

Prevailing westerlies are steady winds that flow from west to east between 30 degrees north and 60 degrees north and between 30 degrees south and 60 degrees south.

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

The Coriolis effect is the phenomenon where moving air and water appear to curve due to the Earth's rotation, causing winds to curve to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere.

Front

What happens to warm air?

Back

Warm air rises and flows north and south, moving away from the equator.

Front

Which type of water is densest?

Back

Cold, salt water is the densest and would sink to the bottom.

Front

What is a land breeze?

Back

A land breeze is a cool wind that blows from the land towards the ocean at night, caused by the temperature difference between the land and the water.

Front

What are trade winds?

Back

Trade winds are steady winds that blow from east to west in the tropics, between the equator and 30 degrees latitude.

Front

What is the role of the equator in atmospheric circulation?

Back

The equator is where warm air rises, creating low pressure and influencing global wind patterns.

Front

How do ocean currents affect climate?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between warm and cold water density?

Back

Cold water is denser than warm water, which causes cold water to sink and warm water to rise.