Global Winds

Front

What is convection?

Back

Convection is the process by which hot air rises and cool air sinks, creating movement in the atmosphere.

Front

What type of air pressure is created by rising air?

Back

Rising air creates low air pressure.

Front

Why does warm air rise?

Back

Warm air is less dense than cooler air.

Front

How is wind defined?

Back

Wind is the movement of air from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure.

Front

In which direction do winds in the Northern Hemisphere blow?

Back

Winds in the Northern Hemisphere blow to the right.

Front

What causes wind?

Back

Wind is caused by differences in air pressure, which are created by uneven heating of the Earth's surface.

Front

What is the Coriolis effect?

Back

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

Front

What are trade winds?

Back

Trade winds are steady winds that blow from east to west in the tropics.

Front

What are westerlies?

Back

Westerlies are winds that blow from west to east in the mid-latitudes.

Front

What are polar easterlies?

Back

Polar easterlies are cold winds that blow from east to west near the poles.