Global Atmospheric Circulation Flashcards
Why is the air warmer at the equator?
Because the sun’s energy shines directly on it.
Why is the equator hot and wet?
Air pressure at the equator is low as it is warm. Warm air rises. As it rises it cools, and the water vapour condenses to form clouds.
Why is the air at the poles colder?
Because the sun’s energy is “scattered” due to the curve of the Earth.
Why are the poles cold and dry?
Air pressure at the poles is as high as it is cold. Cold air sinks. As it sinks it cannot cool and condensed so clouds cannot form.
What three cells are there?
HADLEY, FERREL and POLAR.
What do the cells create?
Particular weather and environments.
What does the planet try to balance out?
The differences in heat and pressure through the three air cells.
What is the pressure like where cold air sinks?
High.
What is the weather like when cold air sinks?
Clear and calm.
What is the pressure like when hot air rises?
Low.
What is the weather like when hot air rises?
Stormy and cloudy.
At what latitude is the Polar climate?
At the poles 90 degrees north and south of the equator.
What are the characteristics of the Polar climate zone?
Cold air from the polar cell sinks, producing high pressure. The spin of the Earth creates dry, icy winds. In some parts of Antarctica, the average wind speed is 80 kph.
At what latitude is the Temperate climate?
Mid-latitudes 50 degrees to 60 degrees north and south of the Equator.
What are the characteristics of the Temperate climate zone?
Two air cells meet, one warm from the Ferrel cell and one cold from the Polar cell. Low pressure is created as the warm air from equator meets the cold air from the poles along a weather front. This brings frequent rainfall and is typical of the UK.
