Chapter Overview
This chapter explains the mechanisms behind atmospheric circulation, global wind patterns, pressure belts, and the formation of weather systems such as cyclones, anticyclones, and monsoons, which significantly impact climate and weather worldwide.
Important Keywords
- Atmospheric Circulation: Large-scale movement of air that redistributes heat and moisture around the Earth.
- Pressure Belts: Zones of high and low pressure formed due to uneven heating of Earth.
- Trade Winds: Easterly winds in the tropics between the equator and 30° latitude.
- Westerlies: Prevailing winds in the mid-latitudes blowing from west to east.
- Polar Easterlies: Cold winds blowing from the poles toward 60° latitude.
- Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ): Area near the equator where trade winds converge, leading to rising air and rainfall.
- Cyclone: A low-pressure system with rotating winds causing storms and rainfall.
- Anticyclone: A high-pressure system with descending air, causing dry and clear weather.
- Monsoon: Seasonal reversal of wind direction bringing wet and dry seasons.
- Jet Streams: Fast flowing, narrow air currents in the upper atmosphere.
Detailed Notes
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