GAC Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is global atmospheric circulation?
The large-scale movement of air across the planet, distributing heat from the equator to the poles.
This circulation is essential for climate patterns and weather systems worldwide.
Name the three cells in the circulation model.
Hadley Cell, Ferrel Cell, Polar Cell.
Each cell plays a distinct role in atmospheric dynamics and weather patterns.
Where are the world’s major deserts usually found, and why?
Around 30° north and south of the equator, where sinking air creates high pressure and dry conditions.
This phenomenon is related to the Hadley Cell circulation.
What is the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)?
A belt of low pressure near the equator where warm air rises and causes heavy rainfall.
The ITCZ is a key area for tropical weather systems.
Why does air rise at the equator?
The sun’s energy is most intense there, warming the surface and causing the air to rise.
This process leads to convection currents that are vital in weather formation.
Why do tropical storms not form near the equator?
The Coriolis effect is too weak at the equator to spin the storm system.
This limitation prevents the development of cyclonic systems in equatorial regions.
Why do some areas at the same latitude have different climates?
Local factors like ocean currents, altitude, and prevailing winds also influence climate, not just latitude.
These factors can lead to significant climate variations even at similar latitudes.
What is global atmospheric circulation?
The large-scale movement of air across the planet, distributing heat from the equator to the poles.
This circulation is essential for climate patterns and weather systems worldwide.
Name the three cells in the circulation model.
Hadley Cell, Ferrel Cell, Polar Cell.
Each cell plays a distinct role in atmospheric dynamics and weather patterns.
Where are the world’s major deserts usually found, and why?
Around 30° north and south of the equator, where sinking air creates high pressure and dry conditions.
This phenomenon is related to the Hadley Cell circulation.
What is the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)?
A belt of low pressure near the equator where warm air rises and causes heavy rainfall.
The ITCZ is a key area for tropical weather systems.
Why does air rise at the equator?
The sun’s energy is most intense there, warming the surface and causing the air to rise.
This process leads to convection currents that are vital in weather formation.
Why do tropical storms not form near the equator?
The Coriolis effect is too weak at the equator to spin the storm system.
This limitation prevents the development of cyclonic systems in equatorial regions.
Why do some areas at the same latitude have different climates?
Local factors like ocean currents, altitude, and prevailing winds also influence climate, not just latitude.
These factors can lead to significant climate variations even at similar latitudes.
