global atmospheric circulation

Question 1

what does atmospheric circulation involve

Answer 1

a number of interconnected circular air movements called cells

Question 2

what does sinking cold air create

Answer 2

high pressure

Question 3

what does rising warm air create

Answer 3

low pressure

Question 4

where do surface winds move and what do they transfer

Answer 4

-move from high to low pressure
- transfer heat and moisture from one area to another

Question 5

why is it cloudy and wet in the uk

Answer 5

-50-60 c north is close to where polar air meets warm tropical air
-surface winds from SW bring warm and wet weather due to rising air cools and condenses

Question 6

why is it hot and dry in the desert

Answer 6

deserts are found at 30 degrees N&S where sinking air means high pressure, little rain

Question 7

why is it hot at the equator

Answer 7

-low pressure marks where the sun is directly overhead
-hot humid air rises, cools, condenses causing heavy rain-tropical rainforests