GAC Flashcards
What is global atmospheric circulation?
The overall circulation of the Earth’s atmosphere formed by circular air movements called cells.
What is the cruising altitude of jet airplanes?
About 10 km above the ground surface.
What are the main components of the atmosphere?
- Gases
- Liquids
- Solids
Includes water droplets, water vapor, ash, carbon dioxide, and oxygen.
What forms areas of high pressure in the atmosphere?
Air that is sinking towards the ground surface.
What forms areas of low pressure in the atmosphere?
Air that is rising from the ground surface.
How do winds on the ground move in relation to high and low pressure areas?
- Move outwards from high pressure areas
- Move towards low pressure areas.
What effect does the Earth’s rotation have on winds?
Winds are distorted and curve as they move from high to low pressure areas.
What is the role of surface winds in the atmosphere?
They transfer heat and moisture from one place to another.
How do seasonal changes affect pressure belts and winds?
The tilt and rotation of the Earth cause relative changes in the position of the overhead Sun.
What is the prevailing wind direction for the UK?
From the south-west over the Atlantic Ocean.
How does global atmospheric circulation drive the world’s weather?
It affects weather through circulation cells, pressure belts, and surface winds.
What weather phenomena are driven by trade winds in the tropics?
Tropical storms (hurricanes).
Why is the UK often cloudy and wet?
It is located close to the boundary of cold polar air and warm sub-tropical air.
What happens when rising air cools in the UK?
It condenses and forms cloud and rain.
What type of weather is associated with the sub-tropical high pressure belt?
Hot and dry conditions in deserts.
What characterizes the weather at the Equator?
Hot, humid conditions with high rainfall.
Fill in the blank: The boundary between cold polar air and warm sub-tropical air creates _______.
[unstable conditions].
True or False: The lack of cloud in deserts leads to very hot days and very cold nights.
True.
What geographic regions experience hot, humid conditions and high rainfall?
- Central Africa
- South-east Asia.
